Jamaat MP alleges Tk2-3cr daily extortion at Karwan Bazar

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami lawmaker Saiful Alam Khan Milon has alleged that extortion amounting to Tk2-3 crore takes place every day at Karwan Bazar in the capital.

The MP made the claim while speaking at a pre-budget dialogue titled "National Budget 2026-27: Political Commitments and Citizens' Expectations", organised by a civic platform at a hotel in Dhaka today (18 May).

He further alleged that around Tk60 lakh is collected monthly as extortion from wholesale poultry shops in Karwan Bazar, and the burden ultimately falls on consumers.

The lawmaker, elected from Dhaka-12, also claimed extortion had been carried out by ruling party members in the past and continues to this day. "The government is well aware of who is involved in extortion," he said.

Responding to the allegation, ruling party reserved-seat lawmaker Mahmuda Habiba rejected the claim, saying such statements become "blanket allegations" if specific names cannot be provided.

"We can discuss these issues in talk shows or roundtables, but without naming those responsible, such claims lack substance," she said.

Habiba added that she would take strict action against extortionists in her constituency regardless of political affiliation. "Whether they belong to the ruling party or others, I will take legal action against them," she said.

She also urged citizens to file cases instead of lobbying.

In response, Milon alleged that police do not accept cases against ruling party members. He described himself as an MP representing an area affected by extortion, including Karwan Bazar, Mohakhali bus terminal and Tejgaon.

He also claimed to have received threats for raising the issue. "Someone warned me not to pursue this matter too deeply, saying it could cost me my life. This is not a trivial issue," he said.

Milon further stated that a minister had advised him to discuss the matter with the prime minister, seeking his assistance.