Most irrigation projects in Lakhai, Habiganj, have reportedly been under the control of Awami League leaders and activists, despite the organization being declared illegal by authorities. Local farmers allege that they were forced to pay charges three to four times higher than the official rates. Shockingly, portions of this extorted money are allegedly being used to fund anti-government plots in the name of ‘organizing the League.’

The farmers claim that the Bangladesh Agricultural Development Corporation (BADC) conducted a field investigation but failed to take any meaningful action. AM Rakibul Haque, Assistant Engineer of BADC and Member Secretary of the Upazila Irrigation Committee, admitted, "We conducted an initial investigation and found irregularities. A letter has already been issued instructing the return of the excess paddy collected from the farmers. If the allegations are proven, the individual involved will be banned from participating in next year's tender process."