Actions to be taken against rumour-mongers: Quader

Road transport and bridges minister Obaidul Quader on Wednesday warned against spreading rumours, saying the government is investigating whether the recent incidents are part of an attempt to destabilise the country, reports UNB.

"Our party is taking initiatives to prevent recurrence of lynching as a result of rumours ... Action will be taken against anyone spreading them," he told newsmen at the Secretariat.

So far, eight people, including women, have been beaten to death across the country over rumours of child abduction, the UNB report said.

Home minister Asaduzzaman Khan on Tuesday said those who are responsible for the killings will be made accused in murder cases.

"We're investigating if any quarter is trying to destabilise the country by spreading rumours or whether attempts are being made to put the government in a tight spot," said Quader, also the general secretary of ruling Awami League.

He further said the AL leaders have been asked to organise meetings to raise people’s awareness. MPs were instructed through the chief whip to organise meetings in their localities in this regard.

"Many of those involved (in spreading rumours) have been arrested. I'm urging everyone to refrain from spreading rumours. Don't be misguided by propaganda and take the law into your own hand," he said.