TDS Desk:

Outrage over the large-scale stone theft at Sylhet’s tourist site Sada Pathor has prompted authorities to launch recovery and restoration drives. Despite these efforts and high-profile investigations, the main perpetrators of the plunder remain at large, leaving accountability in question.

On 15 August, the Ministry of Power, Energy, and Mineral Resources filed a case against 2,000 unnamed individuals. More than two weeks later, only 14 arrests have been made. None of the influential figures allegedly behind the plunder has faced legal action.

Locals allege the crackdown has slowed, with minor players being targeted while powerful figures remain beyond reach. Police, however, insist operations continue daily.

Investigations have revealed alarming details. The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) named 53 individuals, including the metropolitan BNP president and general secretary, the metropolitan Jamaat Amir and district Jamaat secretary, and NCP metropolitan and district coordinators. Several leaders of the banned Awami League factions are also implicated.

A district administration probe identified 137 people and made 10 recommendations, yet the report has not been published, and no action has been taken. Another Cabinet Division inquiry, led by Secretary Zaheda Parveen, is still pending.

Meanwhile, the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) says it has evidence against 50 individuals. These findings, however, have yet to result in any arrests, leaving accountability elusive.

Environmentalists warn that unless top perpetrators are punished, the plunder will continue. “This has gone on for ages,” said Ashraful Kabir of Bhumisontan Bangladesh. “Each time the media highlights the issue, the administration reacts briefly. Without exemplary punishment, Sada Pathor risks being plundered again.”