CAB protests obstruction to consumer watchdog drive

RAJSHAHI, Feb 22 (BSS): The Rajshahi chapter of the Consumers Association of Bangladesh (CAB) formed a human chain in protest against the public threats and attempts to create a mob by dishonest traders.

The organisation's leaders demanded the immediate arrest and exemplary punishment of those involved in the incident that obstructed the executive magistrate of the National Consumer Rights Protection Directorate while he was conducting market monitoring ahead of Ramadan on Wednesday last.

The human chain programme was held at Saheb Bazar Zero Point area on Sunday.

The programme was presided over by CAB Rajshahi Vice-President Mizanur Rahman.

CAB Rajshahi Adviser Liaqat Ali said that the abnormal rise in prices of essential commodities during the month of Ramadan has long been a problem. Lower-and middle-income families suffer the most during this time.

"Market monitoring is not merely an administrative task; it is a constitutional responsibility to protect public interest. Obstructing the discharge of that duty is highly condemnable and a punishable offense," he said.

CAB Rajshahi General Secretary Golam Mostafa Mamun read out a written statement at the programme. He said that government monitoring activities are extremely important during the holy month of Ramadan to control the prices of essential commodities and keep the market situation stable.