'Punish attackers of FF Gafur'

People from all walks of life, specially freedom fighters, yesterday formed a human chain in Islampur upazila headquarters, protesting the attack on fellow freedom fighter Abdul Gafur Pradhan, 70, by the members of a Rajakar's family.

The participants at the rally, organised by Islampur upazila command of Bangladesh Muktijoddha Sangsad, also demanded punishment of the culprits, who beat Gafur while he was on his way to Gangapara Bazar around 10:00am on September 1.

Freedom fighter Gafur openly criticised roles of Rajakars, including Matiur Rahman Chowdhury, member of peace committee, Islampur upazila unit, during the Liberation War, at a public gathering marking the National Mourning Day on August 31, speakers said.

Being aggrieved by the criticism, relatives of the late rajakar led by his nephew, also Islampur Union Parishad Chairman, Shahin Chowdhury launched the attack, they alleged.

Critically injured Gafur was first admitted to Jamalpur General Hospital and later took treatment at National Heart Foundation in the capital.    

Gafur lodged a written complaint with Islampur Police Station against UP Chairman Shahin and 10 to 12 others on Wednesday night.