Argument likely to end today

The argument, which began on September 18, is likely to be concluded today, sources said.

The powerful blast took place on March 15, 1999 at the house of Manik, then ruling party lawmaker, at Chhatak Upazila headquarters, leaving three people dead and one injured.

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It also caused a huge damage to the first floor of the two-storied building.

Manik filed a case the next day as he was not at the house on the day of blast. The then OC Abdus Salam also filed a case. Later, the cases were transferred to the CID.

After a prolonged investigation, CID ASP Aminul Islam submitted a charge sheet against Manik as the principal accused.

Other accused included Manik's cousin Abul Lais Chowdhury, Biplab Bhuiyan, Billal Ahmed, Zakaria Chowdhury and Gopal.

The case was transferred to the Speedy Trial Tribunal in January last year. The trial, however, remained suspended for long because of stay order issued by the High Court.