Irregularities including theft and missing of goods at Carew & Co. (Bangladesh) Ltd, a traditional industry in the southwestern district of Chuadanga’s Darshana, have become a common phenomenon, thanks to the indifference of the authorities concerned. The mismanagement has apparently turned into a rule at the industry which is embroiled in ongoing issues of theft, particularly concerning foreign liquor. It also produces various alcoholic beverages along with sugar and vinegar. Despite the authorities forming probe committees and imposing temporary punishments on those found guilty, these offenders often return to their illicit activities shortly after, leading to the establishment of a racket. This situation continues even after the recent change in government following mass upsurge. Ahead of the Durga Puja, the syndicate has again become more active than ever as the demand for the liquor increases several times this time, said sources. On September 30, six bottles of foreign liquor were recovered from a toolbox of an electrician in the distillery department of the organization. Although the initial response was to downplay the incident until it became public knowledge. Read: Sugarcane threshing begins at Drashana's Carew & Co sugar mill  Last June, an allegation of missing 13,000 liters of DS spirit from the distillery department surfaced. Additionally, accusations of financial irregularities concerning the permanent hiring of 104 workers emerged in May, leading to legal action against several people, including the former Managing Director Mosharraf Hossain, Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) President Sabuj and General Secretary Masud respectively. The Carew & Co. (Bangladesh) Ltd is the only profitable state-owned sugar mill in the region, yet its alcohol production has become a significant source of profit. While law enforcement has made arrests related to the theft of alcohol, the company’s management appears largely indifferent to the issue. Recent police operations have intercepted several shipments of locally made and imported alcohol, leading to multiple arrests of Carew employees. Allegations suggest that labour unions have been complicit in enabling this syndicate, and some local politicians have provided protection for these operations, further entrenching the issue. Preferring anonymity, a worker of the organisation said thefts during the transportation of local liquor to various depots have been common, with drivers and workers sometimes colluding to facilitate these activities. Read more: Selling alcohol, Carew and Company earned a record Tk232.96 crore in 6 months Some workers wishing not to be named claimed that employees in the distillery department collaborate with labour union leaders to execute these thefts, which have reportedly increased during the current administration.  

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir thinks that the current constitution of the country should be rewritten, as the Awami League government has damaged it through various amendments, including the incorporation of certain unchangeable articles. In an interview with UNB, he, however, said the current interim government should only make necessary amendments to the constitution to facilitate a national election rather than pursuing major amendments or reformulating the national charter. Fakhrul said the national parliament, which will be formed through the next election, will determine whether to retain the current constitution with amendments or formulate a new one. He also said the BNP is ready for the next national election, but the party plans to hold its 7th national council before the polls to ensure better leadership and preparation. This is the final report in a three-part series based on a recent interview with Mirza Fakhrul, who discussed various issues, including the current political situation, government reforms, the national election, BNP's future plans, and the party's council. Fakhrul wants interim govt to focus on reforms for credible elections "The constitution must be changed. The Awami League has completely dented it with various amendments,” Fakhrul said. He said certain articles in the constitution cannot be amended for life. “If you change these articles, you will be hanged. Given the current state of the constitution, it should be rewritten.” The BNP leader said an elected government and parliament are necessary for making a final decision about the constitution. “A constitutional assembly also would be needed to reformulate the constitution, which takes time… let the elected parliament decide.” Article 7B of the constitution, following the 15th amendment, rendered a large section of the constitution non-amendable. According to Article 7B, “Notwithstanding anything contained in article 142 of the Constitution, the preamble, all articles of Part I, all articles of Part II, subject to the provisions of Part IXA all articles of Part III, and the provisions of articles relating to the basic structures of the Constitution including article 150 of Part XI shall not be amendable by way of insertion, modification, substitution, repeal or by any other means.” Asked about the BNP’s preparation for the polls, Fakhrul said their party is always ready for elections, as it is a party with the potential to come to power. Prof Yunus-led govt's first month in office marked by reform initiatives, diplomatic success and greater public trust “Those of us involved in BNP politics want to take responsibility for running the state and serving the people. We also do not have a shortage of suitable candidates in any constituency; we have four, five, or even 10 candidates per seat,” he said. The BNP leader said they are working to revitalise the party in various ways. 'We previously reorganised our party for a movement, so we won’t face any problems whenever the election is held." He said they are currently they planning to launch a membership drive across the country, after which they will hold the national council ahead of the election. “I believe we should convene the council immediately to strengthen our electoral structure.” Asked when BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman may return home from the UK, Fakhrul said he would come back once the legal barriers are removed. “There are several cases against Tarique Rahman, and he will return to the country as soon as those are cleared.” The BNP leader said the interim government committed during their first meeting to withdraw all cases against political leaders and activists, including Khaleda Zia and Tarique Rahman. He mentioned that they will write a letter to the government requesting the withdrawal of all cases filed against BNP leaders and activists since 2007. Regarding the demand from various political parties and civil society members for introducing a proportional representation (PR) system in elections, Fakhrul said it is not suitable for Bangladesh.  “We won’t support it. This method is not practiced in Bangladesh, so there is no question of its application in this election,” he observed. Replying to a question about BNP’s current relationship with Jamaat, he said there is no visible distance between the two parties. “BNP and Jamaat have completely different politics, thoughts, and ideals. Those who wish to establish the Awami League's politics try to bracket BNP and Jamaat together. We allied with Jamaat for the sake of the movement and elections, but our political ideologies and perspectives are different,” the BNP leader said. Fakhrul against banning Awami League In response to another question about whether Jamaat would be part of BNP’s coalition in the next election, he said, 'It's too early to say. We will gauge public opinion before the election and decide whether we’ll participate independently or as part of an alliance.” Fakhrul emphasised the urgent need to restructure the police force, which he stated has been destroyed by the previous government. “All members of the force involved in misconduct and misdeeds must be dismissed. Those who have been politically marginalised should be reinstated quickly. New recruitment must be completed promptly, and the new members should be trained in a short time. Additionally, some retired officers who still have the capacity could be brought back to address the current crisis,” he said.

Bangladesh’s interim government is facing an uphill task in restoring administrative discipline, two months after assuming office, official sources said. They said stability has yet to be restored within the bureaucratic framework despite ongoing efforts, with several senior officials either placed on special duty (OSD) or retired prematurely. The contracts of 11 secretaries have been terminated, leaving a number of ministries without appointed heads, while several key positions remain occupied by individuals who were beneficiaries of the previous Awami League government. The field administration, in particular, has been embroiled in controversy surrounding the appointment of deputy commissioners (DCs). Shoppers back polythene ban, worry about alternatives Scandals have marred the process, with numerous appointments being revoked soon after they were announced. The interim government has yet to fill vacant DC positions in eight districts, more than a month after initial withdrawals, according to the officials. Abrupt Contract Cancellation The contracts of two secretaries were cancelled just two days after their appointments. Matiur Rahman, who was promoted to the position of secretary on September 30 and assigned to the Ministry of Shipping, was made an OSD on October 2. Similarly, Elahi Dad Khan, a retired official who was appointed as secretary of the Ministry of Food on September 30, had his appointment revoked soon after. When asked about the abrupt cancellations, Md Mokhlesur Rahman, Senior Secretary of the Ministry of Public Administration, declined to specify reasons but noted that the terminations were made for administrative purposes. In a subsequent move, Mohammad Masudul Hasan, an Additional Secretary from the Ministry of Public Administration, was appointed as the new Secretary for the Ministry of Food on October 1. Ismail Hossain, the previous Food Secretary, was transferred to the Ministry of Social Welfare. The appointment of Elahi Dad Khan, who was under investigation by the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), sparked outrage within the bureaucracy. The swift cancellations have fuelled discontent among officials, prompting stern directives from the Office of the Chief Adviser to prevent similar occurrences in the future. Turmoil Over DCs’ Appointments Unrest has erupted over the appointment of new DCs across 59 districts, creating displeasure among sidelined officials. Aggrieved officials clashed within the Ministry of Public Administration on September 10, leading to altercations and heated exchanges. Since the interim government took charge, 59 district DCs were withdrawn in an effort to reorganise the field administration, resulting in a turbulent appointment process. A horn-free Dhaka: Public awareness and fines to begin in December, says Adviser Rizwana The new DCs started work in 51 districts in three phases; however, the appointments in eight districts were revoked shortly after their announcement. Mokhlesur Rahman stated that if new DCs fail to demonstrate capability, they may be reassigned. The vacant positions in the eight districts will be filled promptly, and further changes may also occur among Assistant Deputy Commissioners (ADCs) and Upazila Nirbahi Officers (UNOs). He assured that the government remains committed to restoring the chain of command within the administration, with operations of the newly formed Administrative Reform Commission already underway. Following the turmoil surrounding DC appointments, a committee has recommended punitive measures against 17 officials involved. An investigative committee, led by Senior Secretary MA Akmal Hossain Azad of the Health Services Division, was formed to address the incidents. Reports from various intelligence agencies have substantiated the charges against the individuals, said  Mokhlesur. “After interrogating the 17 officials, we have made recommendations for disciplinary actions based on our findings. For eight officials, significant penalties may be imposed, while four others could face minor sanctions, and five may receive warnings to prevent future misconduct,” he said. NBR moves to digitalize tax audit selection to curb harassment and enhance transparency In response to allegations regarding a Tk 3 crore cheque linked to DC appointments, the Ministry of Public Administration formed a separate investigative committee on September 24, led by Additional Secretary Md Rezaul Makshud Jahedi. The committee was tasked with verifying the authenticity of the cheque and submitting a report within three days. Commenting on the investigation report, Mokhlesur Rahman dismissed the claims as baseless rumours. “It was a fabricated story aimed at creating chaos,” he asserted. Anticipated Changes Among Senior Officials Further changes are anticipated within the senior administrative positions. The Office of the Chief Advisor has directed a thorough reassessment and replacement of senior officials appointed during the Awami League government’s tenure. Secretary of the Local Government Division Abu Hena Morshed Zaman and Secretary of the Energy and Mineral Resources Division under the Ministry of Power, Energy, and Mineral Resources, along with other secretaries appointed during the Awami League’s tenure, are particularly being reassigned. According to sources in the Ministry of Public Administration, officials implicated in corruption or favouritism may face immediate reassignment to OSD status, followed by potential legal action and surveillance by intelligence agencies.

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has suggested that the interim government should concentrate exclusively on reforms in the electoral process, administration and judiciary to ensure a credible national election within a logical timeframe. In an interview with UNB, he refrained from specifying ‘a reasonable timeframe’ for the current government's tenure. He, however, acknowledged that the BNP's position almost aligns with the recent comments made by the Interim Government Chief and the Army Chief on the issue. Fakhrul also cautioned that delaying the election could exacerbate existing problems, enabling certain vested quarters and accomplices of the deposed regime to engage in foul play. This is the second report in a three-part series based on a recent interview with Mirza Fakhrul who played a pivotal role in organising the leaders and activists of the BNP during a challenging period marked by widespread arrests, the imprisonment of party Chairperson Khaleda Zia, and the absence of acting Chairman Tarique Rahman from the country during the Awami League's 16-year rule. The BNP leader covered a variety of topics, offering his perspectives on the views expressed by the Army Chief and the Interim Government Chief regarding the timing of the next national election. In a recent interview with Reuters, Army Chief General Waker-uz-Zaman vowed to the country's interim government "come what may" to help it complete key reforms after the ouster of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina so that elections could be held within the next 18 months. Besides, during a meeting with IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva at the UN headquarters in New York last week, Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus said the date for a general election will be announced once a consensus on reforms is reached with political parties and the voter list is prepared. Regarding the Army Chief’s comment about holding a national election within 18 months, Fakhrul stated that General Waker expressed his personal view, which seemingly reflects his desire for elections to occur within a reasonable timeframe. "The sooner the election is held, the better for the country. But, the challenge lies in the fact that the previous government has left a mess everywhere. Without addressing these issues, it will be difficult to arrange a fair and credible election," he said. “We believe there is not much difference between our position on the timing of the polls and that of Dr Yunus and the Army Chief. We mentioned a logical timeframe, which you might consider a vague term, but we use it for specific reasons. Certainly, time should be allowed to clear the mess and hold an acceptable election, but it should never exceed a reasonable period," Fakhrul viewed. He also thinks that holding the election as soon as possible will help address many problems and challenges. "The longer the election is delayed, the more the problems will escalate. Those who oppose the revolution and change, as well as those who favor fascism, will look to exploit any unnecessary delays in holding the polls." When asked whether 18 months is a reasonable timeframe, the BNP leader declined to comment. "I don't want to specify any particular timeframe. Let's see... if it’s held sooner than 18 months, that would be better." Fakhrul said the Awami League regime has transformed Bangladesh into a deep state, making every aspect toxic and polluted. “It’s now difficult to identify the right people to fix these institutions." The BNP leader said the interim government has initiated steps for state reforms, which are definitely necessary. "These reforms must be implemented. We also presented a 31-point proposal for these reforms two years ago." Fakhrul said the government has announced the formation of six commissions, each led by qualified individuals, to implement reforms in key sectors. "However, it’s crucial to understand the people’s needs and views. Discussions with political parties are essential to gather their views and proposals. We have our own suggestions, and so do others.” He emphasised that political consensus on state reforms is essential, as these changes will need to be incorporated into the constitution through Parliament following the national election. “So, the government should concentrate on three key areas for reforms—the electoral process, administration and judiciary. By implementing changes in these areas, we can help ensure a credible election in a conducive atmosphere with a level playing field," the BNP leader said. Once Parliament is formed through an election, he said the remaining reform proposals can be presented in the House by the ruling party. “If we are in the treasury bench, we will introduce those proposals. The BNP has the advantage of already announcing plans to form a national government in cooperation with parties that have contributed to the movement against the Awami League regime. This ensures that all parties' opinions will be represented in Parliament, enabling us to move forward together. The BNP leader said it is possible to build the nation in a coordinated manner through a national government, which has proven effective in many countries. In response to a question about the format of the national government, Fakhrul said that it can be formed in two ways: "One option is to include representatives from the parties that participate in the polls, and the other is to involve those parties that joined the street movement against the fascist regime." He, however, said the first option would not be feasible if the Awami League participates in the polls. "It is now impossible to form a government with the Awami League, as the people consider it an anti-state force that has engaged in treason and mass killings. Therefore, there can be no question of forming a government with the Awami League." When asked whether Jamaat-e-Islami will be included in the national government, Fakhrul responded that the BNP and other political parties involved in the movement will consider it if Jamaat expresses such interest. 'I don’t want to comment on the matter right now. We’ll discuss it when the time comes."

Supermarket customers have expressed support for the recent ban on polythene bags, but raised concerns about the higher cost of alternative shopping bags, which they say has increased their expenses. They said the supermarkets should offer cheaper eco-friendly shopping bags or freebie shopping bags for small items.   Supermarket staff also said most of their clients appreciate the move to put an end to the use of polythene bags, but a small number of them show a negative attitude to paying for shopping bags. The no-more-polythene-bag policy is being enforced in super shops from October 1 as part of the government move to stop the use of polythene bags in the country in phases. Visiting Swapno outlet in Shewrapara on Wednesday, it was seen they were offering customers different types of eco-friendly shopping bags at various prices. Shahina Sultana, a customer of the outlet on Wednesday said, “We are appreciating the move to ban polythene bags in supermarkets but the prices of non-polythene bags are high to some extent, which will raise our costs.” Polythene bags banned in superstores from Oct 1: Environment Adviser The supermarkets should also offer freebie shopping bags for small items or cheaper shopping bags, otherwise they would go to grocery shops, said Shahina, who is an employee of non-government organisation RTM International. Another client of the outlet, Pijush Chandra Shil, who is also a private university student, said banning the polythene bags is a right decision. “We’re welcoming it for the sake of protecting the environment,” he said. Manager of the Swapno outlet Shawon Islam said they are offering the shopping bags at various prices from Tk 6 to Tk 16. Though most of the customers purchase the eco-friendly bags with smiling faces, some others show that they are not willing to pay money for shopping bags. “But we’re facing no major problem after implementation of the no-polythene bag policy in their outlet. Now we need to convince a small portion of clients to pay for shopping bags,” he said. Shawon however said they offer freebie paper bags for some items including rice, fish and pulse.  Shadat Rasel, a customer of Agora outlet in Shewrapara, said the polythene bags should have been banned 20-25 years ago as it harms the environment. Environment Advisor Syeda Rizwana urges for using alternatives to polythene shopping bags “It’s a good initiative. We’re ready to pay for shopping bags. We need to clean non-disposable polythene and plastics to protect the environment. Besides, these items are not hygienic,” said Rasel, a private service-holder.   Manager of Agora outlet Delwar Hossain Jibon said it will take time for the customers to become accustomed to paying for shopping bags. “When the ban on the use of polythene bags is enforced everywhere, a positive mindset would be developed among the people to pay for eco-friendly shopping bags,” he said. On September 9, Environment, Forest, and Climate Change Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan said the use of polythene and polypropylene shopping bags would be banned across all superstores in Bangladesh starting October 1. With a view to stop the use of polythene bags completely in the country, the Environment Adviser on Tuesday last said the government will strictly enforce the ban on production, storage, transportation, marketing and use of polythene. A nationwide anti-polythene drive will start in all kitchen markets on November 1 next, she said.

The government is set to implement a gradual ban on vehicle honking across Dhaka city by December, with the goal of making the entire capital a “quiet zone” by early next year, according to Syeda Rizwana Hasan, adviser to the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change. This initiative is part of a larger effort to combat noise pollution, which will later expand to other major cities in Bangladesh. In an exclusive interview with UNB, Rizwana Hasan revealed that steps are already underway, starting with key areas of Dhaka. She emphasized that the government is prioritizing public awareness campaigns before enforcing penalties. The initiative aims to address the deep-rooted habit of honking in urban areas. Adviser Rizwana explained that the process would begin with a comprehensive public awareness campaign, followed by strict enforcement of laws against unnecessary honking. Starting in December, drivers caught honking without cause will face a 500 taka fine for the first violation, with increased penalties for repeat offenses. Environment Advisor Syeda Rizwana urges for using alternatives to polythene shopping bags “Changing habits will take time, but with proper education and enforcement, we can significantly reduce honking,” she said. She stressed the importance of educating both drivers and the general public before fines are imposed, underscoring the need for a shift in public behavior regarding noise pollution. The adviser highlighted the growing concern over the health risks posed by constant noise pollution. “Unnecessary honking and loudspeakers are disrupting normal life and contributing to serious health issues,” she said, adding that noise pollution is linked to hearing loss, heart disease, high blood pressure, and neurological disorders. “Now is the time to address noise pollution alongside other forms of environmental degradation if we want to ensure sustainable socio-economic development,” Rizwana added. Rizwana Hasan also pointed out the cultural and religious significance of reducing noise. She referenced Islamic teachings that encourage speaking in lower tones to avoid causing discomfort to others. “True power lies in reasoned communication, not in volume,” she said, urging drivers to consider whether honking is necessary, particularly when traffic lights turn green. She called on both drivers and the public to pledge to stop unnecessary honking, adding that restrictions on honking would soon be part of vehicle license renewal requirements. “We need collective efforts to bring about real change,” she said. As part of this initiative, on October 1, the Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport and its surrounding three-km radius were declared a “quiet zone,” where honking is strictly prohibited. Violators in this area may face fines or even imprisonment. Air Vice Marshal Md Monjur Kabir Bhuiyan, Chairman of Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB), confirmed that the quiet zone extends from Scholastica school to the Le Meridien Hotel. 3-km area of Dhaka airport ‘Silent Zone’ from today This follows a series of measures implemented at the airport to make the area noise-free. The official launch of this quiet zone was overseen by Rizwana Hasan on October 1, signaling the government’s commitment to addressing noise pollution in the city’s most sensitive areas. Moving forward, the government plans to introduce similar noise reduction initiatives in other major cities. Rizwana Hasan called on citizens to support the program, highlighting the importance of creating a culture that discourages excessive noise for the well-being of all. “If we can stop honking, especially in large vehicles like buses and trucks, we can prevent many serious health issues,” she said, noting that other sources of noise pollution, such as loudspeakers and construction work, must also be addressed.

The National Board of Revenue (NBR) has initiated a plan to digitize its tax audit selection process, replacing the long-standing manual method, to eliminate human interference and restore taxpayer confidence. The move comes in response to ongoing complaints from taxpayers who claim the existing manual system exposes them to unnecessary harassment. NBR Chairman Md Abdur Rahman Khan confirmed the development: “We have begun working on digitizing the selection process to ensure it is objective and transparent.” He acknowledged NBR's "image crisis" concerning how tax audit files are selected. "Taxpayers often complain that the manual selection process is subjective, and this has damaged trust in the system," he said. "Our goal is to eliminate any confusion by fully automating the audit selection process, free from human intervention." In line with the NBR's ongoing transition to a digital system, the authority has temporarily suspended the selection of new tax files for audits. Following the formation of the interim government, NBR's member of taxes (tax audit, intelligence and investigation), Md Alamgir Hossain, issued a directive instructing all field-level tax offices to halt new audit selections until further notice. The decision aims to address the complexities faced by both taxpayers and tax officials under the existing manual process. Bangladesh continues to grapple with one of the lowest tax-to-GDP ratios in the South Asian region—just 7.3%. In contrast, neighboring countries like India (12%), Nepal (17.5%), and Bhutan (12.3%) have significantly higher ratios. Moreover, only 5.2% of Bangladesh's population are registered as taxpayers, a stark contrast to India’s 23.08%. Currently, 67% of the government’s revenue comes from indirect taxes. The NBR has acknowledged the need to shift this dependency toward direct taxes. The NBR chairman has said they are working to broaden the tax net in a way that is more convenient for taxpayers, encouraging compliance while reducing the burden of indirect taxation. The implementation of the Income Tax Act 2023 has introduced new audit guidelines that have raised concerns about potential increased bureaucracy and costs for taxpayers. Under the guidelines, taxpayers may face multiple stages of interrogation, which some fear could open the door to underhand dealings. To combat these concerns, the NBR has been developing specialized software, known as the "Risk Management Engine," which is designed to bring greater transparency to the tax audit process. The software will link with other government agencies to gather data and select tax files for audit based on risk factors, helping to detect tax evasion more effectively.

Despite special export permissions granted since 2019, Bangladesh has once again fallen short of its hilsa export target to India ahead of Durga Puja, as in previous years. According to the Department of Fisheries, Bangladesh exported 665 tonnes of hilsa in the 2023-24 fiscal year, significantly below the permitted 2,420 tonnes. Previous years also saw missed targets, with 477 tonnes exported in FY 2019-20, 1,880 tonnes in FY 2020-21, 1,211 tonnes in FY 2021-22, and 1,376 tonnes in FY 2022-23. The government had initially allowed 79 traders to export a total of 2,420 tonnes of hilsa to India this year, but it appears the target will not be met. A senior official at the Ministry of Commerce said around 50 applications for export permits were received before the government approved the shipments. First Shipment Of Hilsa Reaches India The first shipment of 12 tonnes of hilsa was sent to India via Benapole Port, bound for Petrapole in West Bengal. Rashedul Sajib Nazir, Deputy Director of Benapole Port, confirmed that three trucks carrying hilsa were dispatched by two Kolkata-based importing companies, RS Enterprises and RJ Enterprises. Local Demand Remains High Hilsa remains in high demand within Bangladesh, where local consumers have seen rising prices despite improved catches in recent years. In FY 2022-23, Bangladesh produced 571,342 tonnes of hilsa, a slight increase from 566,593 tonnes in FY 2021-22. However, the fish remains expensive in local markets, partly due to high demand and export restrictions. Seasonal Exports for Durga Puja Bangladesh, the largest producer of hilsa, typically relaxes its export ban ahead of Durga Puja to meet the high demand in India's West Bengal, where the fish is a delicacy. These shipments are often seen as goodwill gestures, with the government permitting exports during the festival season.  Policy and Government Position The Ministry of Commerce grants export permissions based on the recommendations of the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock. Bangladesh had banned hilsa exports in July 2012 to secure local supply, but since 2019, special permissions have been granted during Durga Puja. There have been differing opinions among the advisers of the interim government regarding hilsa exports this year. Finance and Commerce Adviser Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed clarified on September 22 that the decision to export hilsa to India was made following directives from higher authorities, despite earlier indications that exports might be halted. "One responsible person said hilsa would not be exported, but a much higher authority directed us to proceed," he told reporters. Fisheries and Livestock Adviser Farida Akhtar had earlier said that Bangladesh would not export hilsa this year to maintain local supply. However, the government reversed this decision following a "special request" from India ahead of Durga Puja. "While we have acted on this request, my ministry has no direct role in the matter," the adviser explained. Meanwhile, Syeda Rizwana Hasan, Adviser to the Ministry of Environment, Forests, Climate Change, and Water Resources, dismissed concerns that exports would cause local price hikes. "Prices have already increased before the export, so claiming prices will rise further due to exports isn’t accurate," she said during a visit to Noakhali’s Companiganj upazila on September 23. Legal Challenge to Hilsa Exports On September 22, Supreme Court lawyer Advocate Md Mahmudul Hasan served a legal notice to the government, demanding a halt to hilsa exports within three days. The notice claimed that due to exports and “smuggling” to India, Bangladeshis were being deprived of the superior-tasting Padma River hilsa and forced to buy sea hilsa, which is considered less flavorful. Hasan has threatened to file a writ petition if the government fails to act within the stipulated time.

As Durga Puja, the biggest religious festival of the Hindu community, approaches, artisans in Narayanganj are working tirelessly to complete the idol making ahead of the festival. Their skilled hands are crafting beautiful idols of Durga, Lakshmi, Saraswati, Ganesh, Kartik, and the demon Mahishasur with materials like clay, straw, bamboo, and various paints. A total of 213 Puja pandals have been set up in the district for the festival, which is scheduled to begin on October 9th, with the Maha Shasthi Puja, and end on October 13th, with Vijaya Dashami. The auspicious Devi Paksha will commence with Mahalaya on October 2. During a visit to several temples and pandals, including Deobhog Akhra, Palpara, Ukilpara, Sahapara, Amlapara, Noyamati, and Nitai Ganj’s Baladev Jiu Akhra, artisans were seen meticulously working on the idols, many of which are now in the painting and finishing stages. Talking to the UNB correspondent, some artisans expressed their concern over the rising cost of materials of making idols. Tarak Nath, an idol maker, said despite the increased workload, profits have decreased due to the higher prices of bamboo, straw, and other necessary items. “Last year, the budget for idols ranged from Tk 30,000 to Tk 40,000 but this year, it has significantly reduced. Despite this, artisans continue their profession, even though they are not receiving fair price for their efforts.” Artisans hoped to deliver the completed idols at least two days before the start of Durga Puja. Narayanganj District Puja Celebration Council's General Secretary Shikhon Sarkar Shipon expressed satisfaction with the overall arrangements and said, “We are getting cooperation from all political parties, including BNP, Jamaat, Islami Andolon and Hefazat-e-Islam. He said their own volunteers will be responsible for security at each temple and CCTV cameras will be installed at all pandals. Superintendent of Police Pratyush Kumar Majumder said that enhanced security measures are in place to ensure  peaceful celebration of Durga Puja. “Police, Ansar, RAB, and the army members will remain vigilant at all pandals, with plainclothes detectives also monitoring the areas. He assured that the security arrangements this year are more extensive than in the previous years, aiming for a smooth and safe Durga Puja celebration.

The National Board of Revenue (NBR) is taking preparations to put under its scanner the government officials suspected of accumulating illegal wealth and assets through corruption. The revenue collecting authority is taking the move aiming to supplement the government’s move for establishing a discrimination free and corruption free Bangladesh. “Definitely we want to establish a discrimination and corruption-free Bangladesh,” NBR chairman Md Abdur Rahman Khan said recently after inaugurating a programme at NBR. He mentioned that the time has just started and they need some time for taking preparations. “You can not see the move of this preparations from outside,” he said. Meanwhile, Public Administration Ministry’s senior secretary Md Mokhles Ur Rahman recently announced that government officials and employees have been asked to submit their wealth statements by November 30 of this year to their respective ministries and departments. They have to submit wealth reports on 31 December every year. However, the NBR chairman declined to mention any specific date to start their job for detaining the corrupt public servants. “We are putting the matters on right track gradually, we are now placing the right things at the right place,” he said. In this connection, the NBR chairman said that the revenue collecting authority now collecting the data regarding this matter. The government has prepared a format for submitting the wealth statement. Anyone who doesn't submit the statement or provide wrong information will be brought under book. The wealth statement will have to be submitted in sealed envelopes to the authorities concerned. According to Government Servants (Conduct) Rule, 1979 (amended in 2002) all government servants must submit their wealth statements. The government employees have to declare their movable and immovable assets while joining the service and then update it every five year. Although this rule was enacted to reduce corruption and ensure accountability of the government servants, it was limited to papers. No headway was made about enforcement of these rules though the ministry had sent letters to this end on several occasions. In light of ongoing concerns about corruption among government employees, the interim government has reinforced the requirement for annual wealth statements. On August 14, the interim government's Legal Adviser Professor Asif Nazrul said that following consultations with the Supreme Court, all judicial officers and their family members must submit their asset declarations—both domestic and international—within 10 working days. Allegations of widespread corruption have brought the issue of public servants' illegal wealth to the forefront, prompting calls for greater accountability.