Bogura businessman Niranjan Chandra Roy's mill devastated by arson and looting, losses estimated at 30 Million Taka

Niranjan Chandra Roy, a resident of Digdair Union in Sonatala Upazila of Bogura district, is the General Secretary of the Sonatala Upazila branch of the Puja Celebration Council and the President of the Digdair Union branch of the Bangladesh Awami League. His business establishment, M/s Parbati Rice Mill and Semi-Auto Sorter Mill, was subjected to arson, vandalism, and plundering.

The attack took place on August 5, 2024, around 4 p.m., at the mill situated on the west side of Syed Ahmed College Railway Station. The assailants set fire to the mill, burning paddy and various other materials. Additionally, they looted paddy, rice, husk, bran, new sacks, stand fans, ceiling fans, and other valuable items.                                                       

When mill workers present at the scene tried to resist, they were threatened with death. Even their families are now facing threats. It is reported that during the incident, the mill's machinery and sorter machine cameras were also damaged, resulting in an estimated loss of 25 to 30 million taka.

Moreover, after the attack, the assailants threatened to set fire to and loot the workers' homes in Charalkandi village, but local villagers thwarted the attempt with their assistance.

This mill was the sole source of income for Niranjan Chandra Roy. The fire and looting have turned his only livelihood into ruins. The affected businessman and his family are living in fear and have demanded justice for the incident.

A formal complaint has been filed at the Sonatala police station, and the police have begun an investigation. However, local residents believe the attack was premeditated for various motives and have called for the immediate arrest of the culprits.