BARGUNA, March 1, (V7N) -Local influential groups are attempting to occupy and demolish the abandoned Khalifarhat Women’s Market in Patharghata, creating tension between land donors, traders, and the market committee.

Charduani Union Parishad Acting Chairman Alamgir Hossain acknowledged the conflict, saying efforts were underway to reopen the market but disputes had stalled progress. Traders, led by Alamgir Mridha, appealed to the Patharghata UNO to renovate and allocate the market for local women entrepreneurs. However, renovation work has been halted due to the dispute.

Land donor Kanchan Ali said he had donated the land in 2003 for the women’s market, but later sold it to businessman Qayyum Majhi in 2023. Majhi has since applied to demolish the abandoned market, while others demand its renovation and reopening.

Patharghata Upazila Executive Officer Ishrat Jahan confirmed awareness of the situation, stating that legal action would follow after review.

The conflict has sparked concern among traders and residents, who argue that reopening the women’s market would empower local women and strengthen the economy, while demolition would erase a vital community resource.

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