United News of Bangladesh

Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Iqbal Hassan Mahmood Tuku on Wednesday warned that strict legal action would be taken if LPG traders enforce their announced nationwide shutdown of cylinder sales and distribution on October 15 and 16. "If anyone attempts to enforce a strike involving essential commodities in such a situation, we will apply the Essential Commodities Act of 1956. Strikes cannot be called at will just to hike prices. This will not be tolerated,” he told reporters after a meeting with LPG sector traders at the Secretariat. Commerce Minister Khondokar Abdul Muktadir was also present at the meeting. Bangladesh LPG Traders Co-operative Association announced the two-day suspension of LPG cylinder sales and supply, raising several demands including an increase in commission and an end to alleged harassment of traders. The Energy Minister noted that the ongoing war has pushed the global energy sector into a major crisis, with fuel prices fluctuating drastically and supply sources becoming increasingly uncertain. "Currently, the United States remains the only reliable source, while other sources are uncertain. We are discussing ways to keep prices tolerable for consumers," he added. Calling upon the traders to resolve the issue through dialogue rather than disrupting supply, the minister emphasised that an elected government will not allow suffering for the public. Meanwhile, Commerce Minister Khondokar Abdul Muktadir warned traders against manipulating the essential commodities market, creating artificial crises, or attempting to disrupt the supply chain to press home business demands. He noted that the Essential Commodities Act of 1956 remains in force to maintain discipline in the supply and distribution of essential goods, adding that traders must act responsibly. "Disputes over profits, losses, commissions, or other commercial issues can be resolved through discussion. But putting ordinary people in distress by shutting down supply or creating artificial shortages will not be accepted," the Commerce Minister added. He further warned that the government will take stern action if anyone attempts to destabilise the market or take advantage of consumers' helplessness. Senior officials from the Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation (BPC), Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission (BERC), Explosives Department, and top LPG companies attended the meeting.