People at Bochaganj in the district have to suffer a lot as the deed writers have been observing work abstention since February 1, demanding removal of the upazila land officer for his alleged involvement with corruption.
Sources said Sub Registered Golam Murtoza joined the upazila land office on August 3, 2015.
Locals alleged that Murtoza had not attended the office regular after he joined it.
Though he was supposed to attend the office six days in a week, he attended it only three days.
The clients are bound to offer bribe to him before signing the documents as he does not sign it without taking money.
On February 1, the deed writers protested the heinous activities of the officer and started work abstention.
They also brought more allegation against him. The allegations are-not to hang necessary papers on the notice board, misbehavior with the deed writers, giving threat to them and dishonor the profession.
On Wednesday, they brought out a procession in front of the office demanding withdrawn of the officer.
Locals alleged the activities of the land office had been postponed due to the strike and they had to face difficulties as they could not do many important works related to the land.
Abdul Hai of Mursidhat area, said: “I have decided to arrange the marriage of my daughter last month by selling a portion of my land.”
But I could not do it as the deed writers have been observing work abstention for a long time, he added.
Amzad Hossain, a farmer in the area, said he had already finished the processing of selling his land. But Murtoza demanded Tk5,000 from him as bribe before signing the papers.
Amzad cancelled the proposal and his papers had not been signed.
The officer demanded Tk10,000 to Bhupen Singh for selling 40 decimal land.
Deed writer Bidhan Chandra said he had to face starving as he had no work.
Hori Chandar Roy, general secretary of the Deed Writers’ Association, said: “A total 52 deed writers have been working in the office. Now they are passing subhuman life with their family members as they have no work.”
The association president Mizanur Rahman said they would continue their programme until the authority met up their demand.
When contacted, Murtoza said: “Maximum deed writers are involved with unethical activities including taking extra fees.”
“I cannot surrender to their illegal demands,” he said.
