TBM Report
A video of members of the banned student organization, Bangladesh Chhatra League (BCL), harvesting paddy for a farmer in Shariatpur has sparked controversy on social media. The incident occurred on Tuesday (May 12, 2026) in the Kunderchar area of Jajira Upazila, along the banks of the Padma River. Local police have initiated an investigation to identify the individuals in the video, emphasizing that legal action will be taken against members of the outlawed group for carrying out organizational activities.
The viral footage shows about 10 to 12 youths carrying the national flag alongside the banners and flags of the banned organization. They were heard chanting slogans in favor of the ousted Awami League President Sheikh Hasina and a former local parliamentarian. After harvesting the crop, the youths were seen carrying the sacks of paddy to a local transport vehicle. While the beneficiary farmer was heard thanking the group, the public display of a prohibited organization has raised security concerns.
Officer-in-Charge (OC) Saleh Ahmed of Jajira Police Station confirmed that the authorities are reviewing the footage. “We have observed the video of the group harvesting paddy. Our teams are working to locate the area and identify the individuals involved. Once identified, they will face legal consequences under the current laws governing banned organizations,” the OC stated. This is one of the few instances of the group making a public appearance since it was officially banned following the political upheaval on August 5, 2024.
Sources within the local BCL, speaking on condition of anonymity, claimed that they are engaging in social work to maintain their presence despite the ban and legal pressure. Since the change in government, many of its leaders have been in hiding, occasionally appearing in brief flash mobs or processions. However, Shariatpur police reiterated that no activity under the banner of a banned organization would be permitted, and those involved in the recent paddy-harvesting stunt would be brought to justice.
, harvesting paddy for a farmer in Shariatpur has sparked controversy on social media. The incident occurred on Tuesday (May 12, 2026) in the Kunderchar area of Jajira Upazila, along the banks of the Padma River. Local police have initiated an investigation to identify the individuals in the video, emphasizing that legal action will be taken against members of the outlawed group for carrying out organizational activities.){kind=link}