Dhaka moves against errant ruling party cadres

DHAKA - Authorities in Bangladesh have launched a crackdown against errant cadres of the ruling Awami League who use political patronage and muscle power to get things done.

The home ministry has asked police to act strictly to curb crimes by activists or face disciplinary measures. On the radar in particular is the Bangladesh Chhatra League (BCL), the ruling party’s student wing.

The instruction follows directions from the Prime Minister’s Office to contain unruly BCL activists, The Daily Star reported Saturday.

A judicial magistrate’s court in Barisal town Thursday rejected the bail prayers of 18 BCL leaders and activists arrested in connection with factional clashes in a polytechnic in which 11 people were injured, New Age reported.

There have been numerous media reports of ruling party cadres snatching tender forms for business deals, threatening officials, molesting girl students and engaging in pitched battles in university campuses.

The home ministry has asked police officials to act professionally and warned them of disciplinary actions if they fail.