Protesters demand withdrawal of criminal case against PHP Family Chairman Mizanur

Sufi devotees in Chattogram today (7 May) demanded to withdraw the criminal case filed against Sufi Mohammad Mizanur Rahman, an Ekushey Padak-winning industrialist and chairman of the PHP Family.

Speaking at a press conference this afternoon at the 'July Biplob Smriti' auditorium of Chattogram Press Club, they alleged that Sufi Mizanur has been falsely implicated in a baseless case.

They also called upon senior government advisors, particularly in the home and law advisers, to intervene and ensure the immediate withdrawal of the charges.

Reading out a written statement at the conference, Professor Kamal Uddin, general secretary of the Shahadate Karbala Mahfil Executive Committee, said, "Despite his wealth and success, he remains humble, generous, and dedicated to the welfare of others."

"In Bangladesh's business sector, he stands as a rare example of ethical, corruption-free entrepreneurship."

The statement also stressed that there has never been a record of cheque dishonour or loan default associated with the PHP Family chairman in the banking or insurance sectors.

"He is admired among bankers nationwide for his financial integrity," said Kamal Uddin.

"Many people, both locally and internationally, have embraced Islam influenced by his teachings and exemplary character," he added.

The statement also noted Mizanur's remarkable work in establishing, renovating, and expanding mosques, madrasahs, schools, colleges, universities, hospitals, and orphanages.

Allama Kazi Mainuddin Ashrafi, Mufti Asiyar Rahman, Sirajul Mostafa, additional managing director of Peoples Insurance, freedom fighter and politician Ekramul Karim, and Abdul Hai Masum, treasurer of the Shahadate Karbala Mahfil were present on the occasion among others.

Following the briefing, a large protest rally was held in the premises of the press club, attended by a significant number of supporters.

Earlier on 3 May, a criminal case was filed with the Dhaka Chief Metropolitan Magistrate (CMM) Court against 201 influential individuals, including Mizanur Rahman, on charges of financing the suppression of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement.

Other accused in the case include former ministers, vice-chancellors, journalists, cultural figures, former judges, and business leaders.

The plaintiff, MA Hashem Raju, alleged in court that he filed the case after collecting evidence against those directly and indirectly involved in the shooting and crackdown on a student-public procession held in Dhaka on 4 August of last year.

He claimed the accused misused state power to suppress freedom of expression and peaceful protest, and played roles in its execution through funding, incitement, and propaganda.