The riverine islands (chars) of Dashmina upazila in Patuakhali have turned into an arena for a money game. According to a report by Jugantor, significant amounts of money are being invested in the competition for land grabbing, obtaining leases, and establishing dominance. The fertile lands and fisheries of these chars are at the center of this economic transaction and power struggle, which is intensifying daily.

The Allure of Char Land

The emergence of new chars due to river erosion in Dashmina has increased the amount of land in the area. Influential local individuals are spending vast sums to grab and lease these lands. On one hand, there are legal complexities regarding land ownership; on the other, a competition for grabbing is underway under the guise of leasing. The report notes that this competition sometimes leads to clashes.

Money's Role in Establishing Dominance

The money game is not limited to land alone; it also extends to leasing canals, water bodies, and fallow land for fishing. Local residents allege that those with more financial power are taking control of the majority of the char land. As a result, marginal farmers and fishermen are being deprived. The report also highlights the involvement of local political leaders and influential circles in this process of establishing dominance.

Administrative Role and Legal Complexities

There is a need for administrative action to resolve the land-related complexities in the char areas. However, due to a lack of surveys and documents, determining ownership of much of the land is proving difficult. In this situation, the tendency to gain control of land through grabbing and leasing is increasing. While the local administration is monitoring the situation, a quick resolution is not possible due to legal complications, according to sources.

Economic and Social Impact

While this money game is creating short-term economic activity in the char areas, it is increasing social inequality and conflict in the long run. Farmers who have lost their land are becoming daily wage laborers. Meanwhile, new owners are setting up mechanized farming and fishery projects. This change is having a significant impact on the traditional livelihoods and social structure of the char communities.

Next Steps

Experts believe that completing a rapid survey and documenting land ownership is crucial to resolving the land-related problems in the char areas. Additionally, there are demands for transparency in the leasing process and for giving priority to local residents. Those concerned suggest that increased administrative oversight could bring this money game and the resulting conflicts under some control.