The underworld is back

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THE election of the new government was widely hailed by countrymen as a positive development. The people expect relief from the sea of wrongs around them. But, the people, specially businesses, are disappointed as what they find as the stepped-up activities of the underworld that is raising its ugly head once again.

The extortionists appear to have staged a comeback to torment businesses to make undue demands as in the past. Neither the police nor the RAB personnel take action against the extortionists despite repeated requests. As a result, the business operators have to satisfy the extortionists. Fear of life and property disturbs them. It translates into higher costs of essentials for the consumers. The businessmen say that they have to add money they pay to extortionists while fixing the prices they charge the retailers and the retailers pass the burden on to the consumers.

The government needs to pay attention to the rising insecurity of businesses. An immediate and effective response to the soaring problem is needed.

Mustafa Kamal

Asad Gate

Mohammadpur, Dhaka