Md Mizanur Rahman, Chapainawabganj: Allegations have surfaced against an influential group for forcibly occupying Beel Bhatia, the country`s second-largest wetland, through intimidation, assaults, and legal harassment, causing severe losses to local fishermen and threatening agricultural production in the area.

The allegations were raised during a human chain organized by affected fishermen at the Karnakhali Bridge area in Shibganj Upazila on Saturday morning. Participants demanded immediate government intervention to restore their rights and ensure the free flow of water in the beel.

Speakers at the protest said that the lease for Beel Bhatia had been legally awarded to the Durgapur Fishermen Cooperative Society. However, an alleged vested group reportedly seized control of the waterbody by attacking cooperative members and depriving them of their lawful access. As a result, the fishermen have been unable to harvest the fish they cultivated, suffering substantial financial losses.

The protesters further alleged that the occupiers constructed an illegal embankment across a canal in the Kolmugada area, obstructing the natural movement of water. They warned that the blockage could inundate nearly 2,000 acres of cropland, placing thousands of local farmers and fishermen at risk.

Farmers and fishermen accused Nasim Member, Joint General Secretary of Jambaria Union Awami League, and Abdul Kalam, a ward-level Awami League member, of leading the occupation and attacks. They claimed that members of the fishing community, who have depended on the beel for generations, are now unable to earn their livelihoods due to the alleged actions of the occupiers.

According to the protesters, fishermen have been assaulted and threatened with weapons, while ongoing intimidation and harassment have created an atmosphere of fear and insecurity throughout the area.

Among those addressing the human chain were Aminul Islam, President of the Durgapur Fishermen Cooperative Society; Nurul Islam Kalu, General Secretary; members Jinnur Ali and former General Secretary Siddiq Ali; Daipukuria Union Parishad Member Aktarul Islam; and former UP Member Abdul Malek.

Members of the Durgapur Fishermen Cooperative Society, local residents, community leaders, and elected representatives were also present at the demonstration.

The protesters called on the authorities to investigate the allegations, remove the illegal embankment, and restore the fishermen`s lawful access to the beel to protect both livelihoods and agricultural production.