Probe into ex-judge\\\'s graft allegation vindictive: SCBA

Terming the ACC's probe into the graft allegation against former judge Motahar Hossain 'vindictive', leaders of Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) Sunday alleged that the government is harassing the judge intentionally through using the graft watchdog as he acquitted BNP leader Tarique Rahman in money-laundering charges, reports UNB.

"We think the investigation launched by the ACC into the allegation of accumulating wealth illegally by former lower court judge Motahar Hossain is vindictive. It's an attempt made by the government to establish its control over the judiciary," said SCBA president AJ Mohammad Ali.

He came up with the allegation at a press conference in the city.

Mohammad Ali urged concerned authorities not to harass the retired judge who is now staying abroad for the sake of independent judiciary and to uphold its image.

SCBA general secretary and BNP joint secretary general Barrister Mahbub Uddin Khokon and other executive committee members were also present.

On November 17 last, judge Motahar Hossain of the Special Judge Court of Dhaka acquitted the BNP senior vice-chairman and sentenced his business partner Giasuddin Al Mamun to seven years in jail in the case. He went on retirement on December 30, 2013.

The ACC received a graft allegation against the former judge three weeks ago. After examining the allegation, the Commission recently decided to launch an inquiry into the alleged graft of the judge.