Illegal Land Seizure in Kushtia: British American Tobacco (BAT) is also facing serious allegations of land grabbing in Kushtia, where it has taken possession of ancestral lands belonging to local families. Despite the land being registered with documents proving its rightful ownership, the affected families are unable to reclaim the property due to BAT’s influence in local courts.

Family Allegations: The affected family claims that BAT unlawfully seized 7.5% of their ancestral land, which was not part of the original sale agreement. BAT has reportedly used its influence to manipulate legal proceedings in its favor, even though the family has provided proper documentation proving their ownership.

Court Proceedings and Influence: Despite the family presenting valid evidence, the case has been delayed multiple times. A shift in the judge during the trial further raised suspicions of biased rulings in favor of BAT. The family claims that a new judge changed the decision and sided with BAT, even without clear legal justification for the land’s transfer.

Family Testimonies: First Victim: “BAT could not show any valid papers. They manipulated the court case, and despite our valid claims, we were denied justice.”

Second Victim: “The ruling was clearly influenced. A few days after the hearing, a new judge took over, and suddenly, the decision turned in BAT’s favor.”

Legal Aid for Affected Families:The Bangladesh Garments and Industrial Workers Federation has stepped in to provide legal assistance to the affected family, supporting them in their ongoing fight to reclaim their land and secure justice.