HC asks ACC to probe graft allegations against Janata Bank officials
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The High Court on Thursday directed the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) to investigate the corruption allegations against the state-owned Janata Bank officials that were reported in newspapers and to prosecute those found to have engaged in corruption.
The anti-graft body has also been asked to submit an affidavit in court within six months after complying with the HC directive.
The court also allowed the ACC to interrogate any person associated with the bank and to seek any document for the purpose of the investigation.
The High Court bench of Justice Md Nazrul Islam Talukder and Justice Kazi Ebadoth Hossain delivered the verdict after hearing a writ petition filed by Human Rights and Peace for Bangladesh (HRPB).
Lawyer Manzill Murshid appeared in court on behalf of the petitioner, while lawyer Fazlul Hoque represented the ACC.
HRPB had filed the petition in 2012, annexing some published reports that said some of the Janata Bank officials were involved in sanctioning loans in exchange for bribes.
Following the petition, a High Court bench that year issued a rule.
Upon hearing the rule, the High Court on Thursday declared it absolute.
Lawyer Manzill Murshid said no action was taken despite news reports about Janata Bank personnel embezzling money through corruption, including approving loans and waiving interest illegally.
Although there are specific provisions to combat corruption, no action was taken against those who were embezzling public money, added the lawyer.