Play store
The Real Estate and Housing Association of Bangladesh (REHAB) on Monday urged the government to ensure security for housing sector entrepreneurs, voicing deep concern over the prevailing law and order situation and its impact on investment in the real estate industry.
The apex body of housing developers made the call at an emergency press conference held at its headquarters, where it condemned the alleged physical assault, intimidation, and coercion of one of its members in Barishal. The victim was reportedly forced to sign blank stamp papers and cheques.
REHAB President Ali Afzal said the incident involving Md Abdul Aziz Howlader, chairman of Bakla Developers Pvt Ltd and managing director of Agrani Housing Ltd, was not just an attack on an individual but a serious threat to a safe and confidence-driven business environment.
He said the association had closely monitored media reports and videos circulating on social media, describing the footage as disturbing and unacceptable in a civilised society.
Afzal welcomed the arrest of several accused following the filing of a case, terming the move commendable.
However, he expressed concern over alleged attempts to secure quick bail for the suspects and reports of continued intimidation of the victim, warning that such actions could undermine the judicial process.
He called on the authorities to ensure full security for the victim and his family throughout the legal proceedings so they can seek justice without fear or pressure.
Highlighting the importance of the sector, Afzal said REHAB represents the country’s largest housing industry platform, where entrepreneurs have invested thousands of crores of taka and created direct and indirect employment for nearly five million people.
The sector also plays a vital role in planned urbanisation and overall economic development.
He noted that the industry is closely linked with engineers, architects, construction workers, contractors, suppliers, banks, and financial institutions, making its stability crucial for the national economy.
Afzal stressed that any form of coercion, extortion, violence, or intimidation against individuals or institutions is unacceptable. While disputes may arise in business, he said, they must be resolved through legal channels, not through unlawful means.
He also emphasised that REHAB does not consider political affiliation when addressing such incidents, stating that justice must be applied equally to all under the rule of law.
REHAB leaders warned that insecurity among entrepreneurs could negatively affect the country’s overall investment climate, sending alarming signals to both local and foreign investors.
At the press conference, the association placed a four-point demand before the government, law enforcement agencies, and the judiciary: a neutral, swift, and transparent investigation into the incident; exemplary punishment for those found guilty; full protection for the victim and his family; and effective measures to ensure long-term security for housing sector entrepreneurs.
REHAB Senior Vice President Abdur Razzaque, responding to questions from journalists, reaffirmed the association’s commitment to the rule of law, justice, and a safe business environment.
The organisation expressed hope that a prompt and impartial investigation would bring the perpetrators to justice and set a strong precedent to prevent such incidents in the future, thereby strengthening a secure and investment-friendly environment in the country.