Following Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s disclosure that a household staff member had accumulated a fortune of Tk400 crore, the nation is abuzz with curiosity about this affluent peon.
Investigations reveal that the individual is Jahangir Alam, popularly known as “Pani Jahangir,” from Khilpara union, Noakhali. He is the son of the late Rahmat Ullah.
Jahangir served as a staff member at Sheikh Hasina’s residence, Sudha Sadan, during her time in opposition, earning his nickname by carrying drinking water for her at events. When Sheikh Hasina became Prime Minister, he continued in her personal staff.
Despite his modest position, Jahangir presented himself as the prime minister’s personal assistant, engaging in profitable activities that led to significant wealth accumulation. He acquired properties in Noakhali and Dhaka and was often seen carrying a licensed pistol.
Sources reveal that a Prime Minister’s Office notification on December 6 stated that Jahangir Alam had no official connection with the Prime Minister or her office. The notice urged the public to be cautious and seek law enforcement assistance if necessary.
After amassing his fortune, Jahangir ventured into politics, becoming the vice president of the Chatkhil upazila Awami League. He sought nomination for the 12th general election with the boat symbol but later withdrew his independent candidacy after failing to secure the symbol. Allegations later surfaced that he attempted to undermine the boat symbol candidate HM Ibrahim in Noakhali-1.
Jahangir owns multiple properties, including a 2,500-square-foot flat in Dhanmondi under his wife’s name and an eight-storey house in Maijdee, Noakhali. He has shops in Mohammadpur and New Market, as well as a seven-storey building and two flats in Mirpur.
His affidavit for the 12th general election revealed an annual income of Tk50 lakh from various sources and assets worth over Tk2.5 crore in his name and over Tk1.25 crore in his wife’s name in bank deposits. He also has significant investments in companies and Tk6 crore in a partnership firm.
Local sources indicate Jahangir used his position at the PMO for lobbying, tender manipulation, and bribery, controlling the jhut (waste fabric) business in the Gazipur EPZ area.
Attempts to contact Jahangir for comments were unsuccessful as his phone remained switched off following the Prime Minister’s remarks. Sources confirmed he went into hiding and was planning to leave the country to avoid imminent arrest.
