Subarnachar (Noakhali) Correspondent 

Recent remarks made by Rabeya Asfar Saima, the Upazila UNO of Subarnachar Upazila in Noakhali, have sparked widespread controversy. She has allegedly referred to the local people as “Choruya” (a derogatory term), and made controversial comments involving local politics.

Public outrage intensified when the UNO reportedly made disparaging remarks about former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia while refusing permission for a social event organized by the Subarnachar unit of BNP ahead of the upcoming Eid-ul-Azha.

In response, residents of Subarnachar, along with the local BNP, its affiliate organizations, and various social groups, organized a human chain and protest rally. The protest was held  at  Subarnachar Upazila intersection on Tuesday  at 11 AM.

Protesters demanded the immediate removal of UNO Rabeya Asfar Saima, denouncing her for making dismissive and insulting comments toward the people of the region.

Enayet Ullah Babul, member of Noakhali District BNP; Nurul Islam Azad, former President of Mohammadpur Union BNP; former Joint General Secretary of Upazila BNP Shahab Uddin Swapan; Youth Affairs Secretary Ibrahim Khalil; Subarnachar Upazila Jubo Dal Member Secretary Nurul Huda; Joint Convener Abul Khair Akash; Jubo Dal leader Mohi Uddin Mohim were present. 

Also present were Subarnachar Upazila Swechchhasebak Dal Member Secretary Enayetul Islam; Joint Convener Sarowar; former Chhatra Dal Upazila President Ali Ahsan Mohammad Tarek; Shahab Uddin Onik, and leaders from BNP, Jubo Dal, Chhatra Dal, Swechchhasebak Dal, Sramik Dal, and members of the general public.

In their speeches, the leaders stated that the current UNO does not respect the people of Subarnachar and has insulted them, labeling them uneducated. They argued that such behavior is unacceptable and inexcusable. 

The conscious civil society of Subarnachar echoed the sentiment, stating that the UNO’s remarks were not only insulting to the local population but also in violation of the decorum expected from a public servant. UNO was not available for comments.