Staff Reporter, Barguna

It has been alleged that Farhad Talukder, the lessee of the Kachupatra market in Taltoli upazila, and his associates, Upazila BNP members Idris Hawlader and Nizam Uddin Sardar, are illegally collecting additional rent by holding a weekly cattle market on Sundays under their influence. Local Zahirul Islam filed a complaint against their activities with the Barguna District Commissioner’s office on April 24. But even after two months, he alleges that the Upazila Nirbahi Officer and Barguna District Commissioner have not taken any steps to close the illegal cattle market. He demands that the market be closed immediately. It is reported that last March, the Taltoli Upazila Executive Officer invited tenders for the Kachupatra Hat. Farhad Talukder got the lease of the market as the highest bidder. At the beginning of the month of Baishakh, his associates, Upazila BNP members Idris Hawlader, Nizam Uddir Sardar, Sharikkhali Union Jubo Dal member secretary Kawsar Hawlader, Naya Mia Hawlader and Sharikkhali Union Parishad member Sohel Mia, are illegally collecting rent by setting up a cattle market. The locals are not complying with this despite protests. The locals have demanded that the illegal cattle market set up by the leaseholder Farhad Talukder and his associates be stopped. Local Zahirul Islam said that lessee Farhad Talukder and his associate BNP leaders are using their influence to set up illegal cattle markets and collect additional rent. I have complained to the Barguna District Commissioner to take action to stop this illegal animal market. But even after two months, he has not taken any action. Farhad Talukder, the leaseholder of Kachupatra Market, admitted to illegally setting up a cattle market and said, “False allegations have been made against me.” Taltoli Upazila Executive Officer Umme Salma said, “We have received the complaint. Arrangements will be made to close the market.” Barguna Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Shafiul Alam said, “After receiving the complaint, I have ordered the Taltoli Upazila Executive Officer to take effective action.”