Baliadiganj (Thakurgaon) Correspondent

There have been allegations of widespread irregularities and corruption in the distribution of Trading Corporation of Bangladesh (TCB) products in Charole Union No. 2 of Baliadiganj Upazila of Thakurgaon. TCB products were distributed among beneficiaries at the Union Parishad premises last Sunday.

Beneficiaries complained that no miking was done in the area before the distribution of the goods and no banners with the prescribed price list were hung. As a result, many cardholders were not informed about the distribution of the goods and could not attend at the scheduled time.

Beneficiary Babul Islam complained that although the price of other products except rice was Tk 458, Tk 460 was charged from him. Similarly, he claimed that Tk 2 was collected additionally from each beneficiary.

Another beneficiary complained that he deposited the card and money but later did not get the card or the product back. The dealer's people said that someone had taken the card and left. There have also been complaints that many beneficiaries were turned away because they did not have the product despite having the card.

Local resident and beneficiary Bablu Hossain said that 2 kg of lentils were given 20 to 30 grams less and 1 kg of sugar was given about 20 grams less. All the complainants are residents of Charol Union.

In this regard, Charol Union Parishad Secretary Habibullah said, "I was informed about the distribution of TCB products. I also mentioned miking."

Panel chairman Tooltul Islam said, "I was only informed about the distribution of goods."

Despite several attempts to contact the owner of M/s Nafi Traders on his mobile phone to inquire about the complaint, he answered the phone and disconnected. As a result, his statement on the matter could not be obtained.

Regarding the matter, Baliadangi Upazila Executive Officer Anjan Kumar Das said, "If the allegations are found to be true, strict action will be taken against those concerned."

Meanwhile, Mahmudul Hasan, Deputy Director (Office Head) of the Dinajpur Camp Office of the Trading Corporation of Bangladesh (TCB), said, "We have come to know about the allegations of irregularities in the distribution of goods against Messrs. Nafi Traders. Necessary action will be taken after verifying the veracity of the allegations."