No party in power carried out ‘correction drive’ against its men: Quader

Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader yesterday said they have taken time to collect evidence before launching the ongoing “correction” drive against people involved in gambling and other illegal activities.

Although the drive is not against any particular political party, the ruling party has shown courage by taking action against its own men first, Quader, also general secretary of Awami League (AL), said.

“No party in power had carried out correction drive against its own men ever...This is what Sheikh Hasina is doing,” he said.

The minister was speaking at a press briefing on contemporary issues at his secretariat office.

 Law enforcers have arrested several persons affiliated with AL’s associate bodies for their alleged involvement in illegal activities, including gambling and tender manipulation.

Quader said although the arrestees do not hold important portfolios in the party, their offences are grievous.

Asked why such drive is now required as AL has been in power for the last 11 years and whether the government has shown leniency towards the offenders, Quader responded in the negative and said, “We kept them under watch. We wanted to take time because  action can’t be taken against a person without proper evidence,” he  said.

“It is rare that a ruling party takes action against its men... Better late than never,” the minister added.

Quader said Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, while briefing the media in New York, already gave indication about intensifying the drive.

Asked whether the government is being lenient with Dhaka South Jubo League President Ismail Hossain Chowdhury Samrat, an alleged kingpin of illegal casino business, Quader replied, “None will be spared.”

“If proper evidence is found against anyone following investigation, he/she will be arrested,” he said.

Asked whether enough evidence is not available against Samrat, Quader said, “The home minister has already said ‘wait and watch’, so let’s wait. Why are you [journalists] in a hurry?”

Similar drives would be conducted across the country, he added.

“The drive is on. Someone is being arrested every day. Many others are now under watch,” he said.

The minister said investigation is on against government officials -- allegedly involved in irregularities and corruption -- and people will get to know when action is taken against them.