Durbar Rajshahi Owner’s Commitment After Being Taken Into Custody

Durbar Rajshahi owner Shafiqur Rahman, who faced criticism over payment issues in the BPL, was taken into police custody. There, he assured that all dues of players and related personnel would be cleared in three installments. He promised to pay 25% in each installment on February 3, 7, and 10. The Ministry of Youth and Sports confirmed this in an official press release.

The statement reads as follows:

"Despite the sincere efforts of the BCB, the Ministry of Youth and Sports, and the higher authorities of the government to ensure the success of BPL 2025, franchise Durbar Rajshahi has repeatedly violated agreements with its players, coaching staff, and management. This has not only affected the tournament but also raised questions about the country’s reputation on the international stage.

As their unprofessional conduct continued to surface in the media, Youth and Sports Advisor Mr. Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuyain held discussions with the franchise owner to resolve the issue.

Although the advisor was assured that 50% of the dues would be cleared by February 2, that commitment was not fulfilled. Instead, media reports revealed further allegations of irregularities. Additionally, reports of lawsuits against the franchise owner started surfacing, prompting the ministry to take the matter more seriously to protect the country's image. As rumors spread about the franchise owner possibly fleeing, the government was compelled to intervene.

In this situation, to address the crisis and ensure that all dues are cleared, the controversial owner, Shafiqur Rahman, was taken into custody by law enforcement in the early hours of February 3 for questioning. When asked about the resolution, he admitted his faults and committed to paying all dues in three installments—on February 3, 7, and 10, 2025, at a rate of 25% per installment.

Furthermore, he assured that not only the players but also all related personnel would receive their payments in each installment. He also agreed that legal action could be taken against him if he failed to comply.

Additionally, an investigation committee is actively working to uncover all irregularities in the BPL. The Ministry of Youth and Sports is determined to take appropriate action against those responsible for damaging the country’s reputation."