Consumers will not be cheated - Chattogram City Corporation Mayor

Chattogram City Corporation (CCC) Mayor Shahadat Hossain has expressed his firm stance on ensuring that there is no instability in the market for essential commodities ahead of the month of Ramadan. He made it clear that action will be taken against those concerned if syndicates or artificial crises are created to increase the prices of goods.

The mayor said these things while visiting the city's Khatunganj Wholesale Market on Wednesday (February 25) afternoon. As part of monitoring the supply, price situation and market management of essential commodities on the occasion of Ramadan, he toured the market and exchanged views with traders.

Mayor Shahadat Hossain said that in various Muslim countries of the world, the government sells goods with subsidies during the month of Ramadan, and even distributes Iftar items for free in some places. Highlighting that moral example, he urged local traders to come forward with a humane approach. At the same time, he warned, "We will not give any syndicate any concession. Those who deliberately increase prices and cause suffering to the common people, God willing, will be taken against them."

He further warned that creating artificial crises during Ramadan, unreasonable price increases or cheating consumers will not be tolerated in any way. Stating that it is mandatory to display price lists in the markets, the Mayor said that not displaying the list and occupying the sidewalks are tantamount to violating the law.

Highlighting the issue of market monitoring, the Mayor said that the big markets of the city, including Kazir Deuri, Chawkbazar, Bahaddarhat and Pahartali markets, are under regular supervision. Surveillance has also been strengthened to ensure that the difference between wholesale and retail prices is minimal. "The difference between wholesale and retail prices should be minimum, not maximum."

During the inspection, the mayor visited various warehouses and wholesale establishments and inquired about the stock and supply situation of Ramadan-centric products including rice, pulses, sugar, oil, chickpeas and dates. Senior officials of the City Corporation, leaders of the market association and local traders were present at the time.

Later, he exchanged views with the leaders of the organization at the office of the Khatunganj Trade and Industries Association. The concerned officials said that such supervision and operations will continue to ensure order and price stability in the market throughout Ramadan.