Dhaka:The Directorate of National Consumer Rights Protection (DNCRP) today imposed fines totaling Taka 7,96,500 on 101 business establishments across 36 districts. These actions were part of nationwide drives aimed at curbing market manipulation, preventing artificial shortages, and addressing unjustified price hikes of essential commodities.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, 52 special teams from the directorate conducted operations in both wholesale and retail markets throughout the country. The focus was on preventing artificial shortages, unreasonable price increases, hoarding, and disruptions in the supply of essential kitchen commodities, such as edible oil, onion, ginger, and garlic.
During the inspections, officials examined purchase and sales receipts, the display of updated price lists, and the use of accurate weighing equipment to ensure fair transactions. Businesses were instructed to display updated price lists, use digital weighing scales, and maintain proper purchase and sales records. Authorities also issued warnings against unjustified stockpiling and any practices that disrupt the normal supply of commodities.
Awareness leaflets were distributed to consumers and traders to emphasize consumer rights and fair business practices. Local administration, law enforcement agencies, health inspectors, representatives of the Consumers Association of Bangladesh (CAB), and business associations collaborated in the drives.
Furthermore, the directorate advised consumers against panic-buying or purchasing commodities beyond their needs. Consumers were encouraged to check expiry dates, maximum retail prices (MRPs), and to collect cash memos or purchase receipts while shopping. The directorate urged consumers to report fraud, price manipulation, and other market irregularities through its hotline 16121.
The DNCRP stated that such monitoring activities would continue to ensure normal supplies of essential commodities, promote fair prices, and protect consumer interests.