MP Ferdousi Ahmed Mishti resigns over Radda centre attack

Reserved-seat lawmaker Ferdousi Ahmed Mishti has resigned from Parliament at the Prime Minister's behest, days after allegations emerged linking her to the attack, looting and demolition of the Radda MCH-FP Centre in Mirpur, which she has categorically denied.

Mishti submitted her resignation to Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmed at the Jatiya Sangsad on Thursday afternoon, following Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's directive, according to the prime minister's office and multiple reports. The move follows the midnight attack on September 24, in which a group of people allegedly vandalised and looted the maternal and child health facility before heavy machinery was used to raze parts of the premises. Furthermore, allegations have surfaced implicating several local BNP leaders and members of affiliated organisations, although Mishti has denied participating personally in the assault.

Meanwhile, Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed said that an investigation into her alleged involvement was under way, adding that action would be taken if evidence established anyone's role. Moreover, the incident has prompted broader scrutiny of Mishti's political activities and her association with local figures, while reports have linked people described as close to her with the incident. Nevertheless, such claims remain unproven and are subject to investigation.

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The case filed over the attack names several individuals, and police have already detained a number of suspects. Consequently, Mishti's resignation comes amid a continuing legal and political process, and it remains to be seen whether the inquiry will substantiate the allegations or exonerate those accused.