Consumer rights DG confident prices are under control during Ramadan, Despite Supply issues

The Director General (DG) of the Directorate of National Consumer Rights Protection, Mohammad Alim Akhter Khan, has reassured the public that essential goods prices are being regulated during Ramadan. 

He acknowledged that it‍‍`s normal for some items to experience slight price increases during this period but stressed that the situation remains under control.

Earlier today, at around 11:30 am, Khan led an inspection raid at Karwan Bazar, one of Dhaka‍‍`s busiest markets, on the very first day of Ramadan. 

The operation aimed to ensure compliance with pricing rules and address concerns from both consumers and vendors about rising costs. 

Following the raid, Khan spoke to the media and explained the current price control measures.

One key issue highlighted during the raid was a shortage of soybean oil, with several sellers raising concerns that oil companies had not been delivering their supplies on time. 

Khan acknowledged the problem and said, "Although oil companies had promised to ensure supply by February 26, they failed to fulfill their commitment. To address this, a committee will be set up today by the Consumer Directorate to take action against them. However, it will take at least 15 days to receive the investigation report."

Despite this setback, the DG remained firm in his stance that prices are not spiraling out of control. He reiterated that price increases for certain products during Ramadan are reasonable and expected. 

Additionally, he pointed out that consumers purchasing more than necessary has contributed to market shortages, urging people to buy only what they need.

The operation at Karwan Bazar saw participation from various officials of the Directorate, as well as leaders from the Bangladesh Shop Owners Association and representatives from the Consumers Association of Bangladesh (CAB). 

Together, they monitored the market to ensure prices were kept in check during the high-demand Ramadan season.

This proactive effort comes as part of a wider initiative by the Directorate to prevent price manipulation and ensure that consumers are not unfairly burdened during the holy month.