Sk Sohrab Hossain, Jashore

Despite holding valid deeds, mutation papers, and regularly paying land taxes, Md. Hafiz Molla of Abhaynagar upazila in Jashore is running to take possession of land he purchased with his life savings, currently living a subhuman life under threats from influential quarters.

According to investigative findings, Hafiz Molla—son of Mostain Molla from Singgari village in Abhaynagar upazila—purchased 69 decimals of paternal land from Uttam Kumar Mukherjee, son of the late Debdas Mukherjee, a resident of Singhasholpur village in Narail Sadar upazila. The property falls under JL No. 108 and RS Khatian No. 335, registered via kabala deed No. 509 on January 22, 2020.

Following the purchase, Hafiz completed the legal mutation process and has been regularly paying land taxes. His mutation case (No. 2.769(ix-i) 2024-25, dated October 7, 2024) and mutation khatian (No. 611, DCR No. DCR24657610802769) currently record his ownership of 60.83 decimals of land. However, shortly after the acquisition, the land caught the attention of two local influential figures—Tutul Mukherjee and Phatik Mukherjee, who are known as Awami League leaders.

Allegations indicate that the duo used various tactics to block Hafiz from taking possession of the property, eventually evicting him under threats of murder by leveraging past political clout. Compounding his helplessness, the seller, Uttam Kumar Mukherjee, relocated to India after the transaction, leaving Hafiz stranded without physical possession despite being the legitimate legal owner.

The victim had hoped that the political changeover following the fall of the Awami League government would finally allow him to reclaim his land. Instead, his circumstances remain unchanged. Complaints have emerged that the previous influential figures have reportedly influenced certain local political elements with money to launch fresh threats against him.

Currently, Hafiz is desperately seeking intervention from various authorities to recover his lawful property. "I sold everything I had to buy this land. Now, forget about the land, I am even terrified for my safety," he said.

He has appealed to the government, the Deputy Commissioner, and relevant authorities to verify his ownership and take prompt measures to ensure he receives possession of his land. Locals warn that if the matter is not investigated and resolved swiftly, such incidents will foster deep despair among ordinary citizens.