A Dhaka court yesterday framed charges against four people, including Jamuna Group chairman, in a case filed for illegally producing and marketing "Crown" and "Hunter" beers.

The accused are: Jamuna Group Chairman Nurul Islam Babul, his wife and Jatiya Party lawmaker Advocate Salma Islam, their son Shamim Islam, and General Manager of Crown Beverages Ltd Mohammad Shuroj Rahman Sheikh.

Babul, Salma, and Shamim, now on bail, pleaded not guilty. Shuroj was not present at the court and charge was framed against him in absentia.

The court rejected their discharge petitions and fixed January 19 to start trial. It exempted Salma from personal appearance. 

On March 8, 2004, the Narcotics Control Department filed the case against them for producing the beverages using alcohol in larger volume than what was permitted and illegally marketing those through Crown Beverages Ltd factory.