Dhaka, Feb 22 (V7N) – A citizens' march was held in Chittagong city on Saturday, demanding strict government measures to prevent artificial crises and market manipulation of essential commodities during Ramadan.
The rally, organized by the Consumers Association of Bangladesh (CAB) Chittagong and Youth CAB Chittagong, began at the historic Oli Khan Majidi Square in Chawkbazar and proceeded towards Jamal Khan Press Club, protesting price hikes under excuses such as VAT increases, dollar shortages, and supply issues.
CAB Vice President SM Nazer Hossain and Youth CAB Chittagong Metropolitan President Abu Hanif Noman, among others, participated in the march.
Speakers criticized unscrupulous traders for creating artificial shortages and manipulating prices during the holy month of Ramadan, making life difficult for ordinary people.
They accused market syndicates of exploiting excuses like VAT hikes and dollar shortages to raise prices despite adequate stock and imports.
They also alleged that regulatory authorities remain silent in the name of "humanitarian considerations" for businesses, which exacerbates the crisis.
Despite ample supply, soybean oil is disappearing from the market, and even when available, it is being sold at exorbitant prices, they said.
The march called for strong legal action against hoarding and market syndicates and urged citizens to practice restraint while purchasing essentials during Ramadan.
The speakers advised consumers to buy weekly instead of monthly to prevent market instability.
They also recommended distributing cash to the poor instead of iftar packages, allowing them to purchase necessary items based on their needs.
Furthermore, they urged wealthy individuals, businesses, and political organizations to ensure affordable food for the underprivileged throughout Ramadan, rather than limiting support to a single iftar meal for publicity purposes.
They also encouraged consumers to report price manipulation, hoarding, and unfair practices to the Directorate of National Consumer Rights Protection hotline (16121) or CAB’s contact numbers.
END/MSS/AJ
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