DHAKA, April 13, (V7N) -  Fisheries and Livestock Adviser Farida Akhtar has sharply criticized illegal jatka (young hilsa) fishing, blaming what she called "evil businessmen" for exploiting the practice and denying responsibility lies with genuine fishermen.

Speaking at a view-exchange meeting at a Jatrabari fish market in Dhaka, held as part of Jatka Conservation Week-2025, Akhtar underscored that real fishermen follow the law. "Actual fishermen do not catch jatka. Those who do are businessmen with bad intentions," she said.

The adviser stressed the importance of jatka conservation to protect the future hilsa supply, one of Bangladesh’s most treasured fish. She said that illegal fishing not only undermines national efforts but also hurts long-term livelihoods.

Akhtar also addressed infrastructure concerns in city markets, promising a modernized, organized market complex in Jatrabari where hygiene standards and food separation will be improved. “A healthy market will be created where goods will be kept separate,” she assured.

On security issues raised by traders, the adviser promised to consult the Home Ministry to address their concerns. “We will resolve the insecurity of fish traders and shopkeepers through proper coordination,” she added.

The event was presided over by Fisheries Director General Dr. Md. Abdur Rouf, with a welcome address from Deputy Director of Dhaka Division Md. Monirul Islam. Adviser Akhtar closed by urging stakeholders not to raise fish prices unnecessarily, reinforcing the government’s drive for fair practices in the fisheries sector.

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