Allegations of irregularities, lack of transparency and embezzlement of government revenue have been raised in the collection of government khas rent at the markets and markets in Badalgachhi, Naogaon. Local businessmen and farmers have alleged that an influential party has been collecting rent for a long time without following government regulations, raising questions about the government’s huge revenue collection.

It is learned that although the Badalgachhi Hat and Market (Government-Acquired State Hat) approved by the Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh is under the jurisdiction of Khas Khajna, local political figures and their followers are collecting the rent instead of the direct supervision of the upazila administration. The five hats of Kola, Bhandarpur, Parsombari, Chandpur and Badalgachhi Sadar in the upazila are the largest hats in the upazila. These hats generate several crores of taka in revenue every year. From which various types of development of the upazila are carried out. However, this year, the ruling party, by exerting influence in the hats and making arrangements, did not allow anyone to submit tenders. Later, when the hats went to collect Khas, they collected it themselves by colluding with the administration. As a result, questions have arisen about the government’s huge revenue collection.

Locals allege that, ignoring government regulations, a nominal amount is being deposited in the government treasury and the rest is being distributed through embezzlement or irregularities. However, it has not been possible to independently verify any documents to support this allegation.

However, local conscious circles have sought the intervention of the relevant higher authorities to reveal the true picture through a fair investigation and ensure transparency in government revenue collection.

On Saturday, Badalgachhi Sadar Hat was seen

Upazila BNP Publicity Secretary Abu Raihan Guitar’s people are collecting rent from various sectors at the market.

However, farmers and traders have alleged that the government-set rent rate or list has not been displayed anywhere in the market, which is against government policies. Meanwhile, irregularities have also been reported in the purchase and sale of agricultural products. Farmers claim that although a circular was recently issued by the government to purchase raw materials at a rate of 40 kg per maund, products are being bought and sold at a rate of 42 to 43 kg per maund in the market. They allege that farmers are being financially affected by this.

A person named Abu Ashari, who is involved in collecting rent, said, “The market is under the jurisdiction of Khas collection. However, we have learned that Abu Raihan has taken a lease from the Guitar Office.”

When contacted on mobile phone, Abu Raihan Guitar said, “We will discuss this in person.” He then disconnected the phone call.

On the other hand, Badalgachhi Upazila Executive Officer (UNO) Israt Jahan Chhani said, “Khas rent is being collected at Badalgachhi Sadar Hat and Bazar.