Bangla Press Desk: The Directorate of National Consumer Rights Protection conducted a nationwide special drive to curb price manipulation, overcharging, and supply irregularities regarding essential commodities, including fruits and edible oil.
During the operation carried out on Monday (October 12) across 42 districts—including Dhaka metropolitan area—120 business establishments were fined a total of Tk 8.15 lakh.
According to the Directorate, the drive aimed to stabilize the market for essential goods, maintain a normal supply chain, and ensure consumers could purchase products at fair prices. Fifty-six teams from the Directorate simultaneously conducted inspections at wholesale and retail markets in various areas.
The operation involved verifying selling prices, purchase and sales vouchers, price lists, and weights and measures for essential items like fruits and edible oil. Traders were warned against irregularities such as unjustified price hikes, selling goods above fixed rates, and creating artificial supply shortages.
Special emphasis was placed on curbing irregularities in the fruit market. Traders were cautioned against mixing rotten or spoiled fruit with fresh produce and using harmful chemicals or unauthorized substances. Instructions were also issued to maintain fruit quality and sell at reasonable prices.
The Directorate stated that no trader is permitted to create artificial shortages, hoard goods unjustifiably, or obstruct the normal supply chain.
Every shop must display an updated price list in a visible location, maintain purchase and sales vouchers, and ensure accurate weights and measurements.
Meanwhile, the Directorate advised consumers to remain vigilant while shopping. They were urged to check price lists, verify product weights, and examine the Maximum Retail Price (MRP), production date, and expiry date on packaged goods before purchasing. Consumers were also advised to retain their purchase receipts. Consumers can lodge complaints via the Directorate of National Consumer Rights Protection’s hotline (16121) if they fall victim to overcharging, short-weighing, adulteration, or any other form of fraud while purchasing products.
The Directorate has stated that nationwide monitoring and legal actions will continue in order to establish transparency and order in the market for essential commodities, curb unreasonable price hikes, and ensure the steady supply of goods.
BP/TD
