Dhaka, Sep 26 (V7N)- Health Minister Sardar Md. Sakhawat Hossain has said the dispute over ownership of the Radda Center in Mirpur-1 will have to be resolved through the courts.

He made the remarks while responding to journalists after inaugurating the Nationwide Special Measles-Rubella Vaccination Campaign-2026 at the TNT playground in Mohakhali-Korail on Saturday.

Sakhawat Hossain said the Radda Center was operated by an NGO and provided maternal healthcare and vaccination services, including government-supported EPI activities. He said he was not aware of the details of the land ownership.

"Land disputes are common in Bangladesh, but that does not justify anyone demolishing a structure under the cover of darkness. This is certainly an unfortunate incident," the health minister said.

He said he would ensure that the vaccination programme continues at the site. The DNCC administrator has already made arrangements for the programme, while police will oversee security there.

Sakhawat Hossain also said he would work to ensure that no one engages in unlawful actions concerning the matter in the future.

Meanwhile, four people have reportedly been arrested by Shah Ali Police Station in connection with the incident. The measles-rubella vaccination programme has continued in front of the main gate of the demolished facility.

DNCC Administrator Shafiqul Islam Khan has also said those responsible for the alleged vandalism and looting would be arrested and face legal action.

Radda Center authorities filed a case with Shah Ali Police Station over the incident, naming Hanif Mia and around 200–250 unidentified individuals, according to police and local media reports.

The clinic authorities alleged that a large group of masked individuals entered the facility, held security personnel, looted medical equipment, medicines, vaccines and other items, and used heavy machinery to demolish one permanent and three semi-permanent structures. They estimated the losses at around Tk 1.5 crore. These allegations are subject to investigation.

The clinic authorities also alleged that a signboard bearing the name of a shopkeepers' cooperative was subsequently placed on the premises. The cooperative has disputed the clinic's account and claimed rights over the land, making the ownership issue a matter for legal resolution.

END/SMA/AJ