Patuakhali Correspondent
A residence belonging to Kazi Mizanur Rahman Lavlu, the Chairman of Madhabkhali Union and the local president of the now-prohibited Awami League, was systematically demolished and set on fire in a brutal act of mob violence late Friday night.

In response to the incident, the human rights organization Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK) has issued a statement expressing its deep concern, strong condemnation, and outrage.

The residence, located in the Kathaltali Bazar area of Madhabkhali Union, was reduced to rubble by an excavator. Witnesses reported that a mob of over a hundred individuals cleared the area before beginning the demolition, ensuring no one could record the event. Following the destruction, the attackers reportedly looted valuables and set the remaining structure ablaze.

Mizanur Rahman Lavlu Kazi, who had recently been released on bail after being imprisoned for nearly a year and a half following the political shift on August 5, 2024, has blamed the followers of local BNP Member of Parliament Altaf Hossain Chowdhury. Kazi alleged that he had informed the District Superintendent of Police, Md. Abu Yusuf, of the impending danger as early as Friday evening, yet the attack proceeded unimpeded.

Kazi’s family alleged that the attackers—who they claim included local BNP figures such as Md. Shahin Chowdhury, Shahin’s associates, and local student leaders—looted gold jewelry, valuable documents, and appliances, taking them away in several vans.
Madhabkhali Union BNP President Md. Shahin Chowdhury has denied any involvement, claiming that Kazi had built the house on land registered for a public library in 2003. He asserted, "We have no interest in this land. The attack was carried out by people angered by his oppression during the fascist regime."

Mirzaganj Police Station OC Md. Tawhiduzzaman stated that while reports of vandalism and arson have been received, no formal written complaint has been filed. He assured that an investigation will be launched once a complaint is submitted. Mirzaganj Upazila Executive Officer Sheikh Md. Russell also visited the site to assess the damage.

Our Staff Correspondent adds : Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK) has condemned the incident as a complete violation of the rule of law.
In its statement, ASK emphasized that grievances against any individual must be addressed through the judicial process, not through mob justice.

"Demolishing homes, looting property, or committing arson without legal authorization is entirely illegal," the organization stated. ASK expressed alarm that such organized violence continues to occur under an elected government, raising serious concerns about public safety and the effectiveness of state law enforcement.

Citing Articles 27 and 31 of the Constitution of Bangladesh and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, ASK reminded the state that it is constitutionally obligated to protect the life, property, and security of all citizens, regardless of their political affiliation. The organization has called for an immediate, impartial, and effective investigation to hold the perpetrators accountable and prevent future acts of lawlessness.