‘Cases must be pursued against those involved in crimes using political identity’

Commerce Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir said on Friday that no one should face hostility or discrimination because of their political identity or ideology.

However, those who used their political identity to engage in terrorism, land grabbing, torture and oppression must face legal action, and the cases filed against them must be pursued with due seriousness, he said.

“There can be no compromise whatsoever in dealing with such crimes,” the minister said, urging government law officers to perform their duties with honesty, dedication and professionalism.

He made the remarks as the chief guest at an exchange-of-views meeting with newly appointed public prosecutors (PPs), government pleaders (GPs), additional government pleaders (AGPs) and assistant public prosecutors (APPs) at Sylhet Circuit House in the evening.

The Nationalist Lawyers' Forum organised the meeting.

Addressing the newly appointed law officers, Muktadir said their responsibilities were highly significant in ensuring justice for the people.

He noted that most people seeking justice were financially disadvantaged and stressed that government law officers must play an effective role in ensuring their access to justice.

He also called for taking a firm legal stance against injustice and criminal activities so that ordinary people do not suffer harassment while seeking justice.

The minister further said drug abuse and online gambling emerged as serious social problems. Protecting young people from drug addiction and preventing the spread of online gambling were particularly urgent priorities, he added.

He urged the law officers to handle cases related to these offences with utmost seriousness to prevent criminals from securing bail by exploiting legal loopholes and returning to criminal activities.