NCP alleges BNP of LPG price manipulation, fertiliser nepotism
Nahid Islam and Sarjis Alam raise allegations at Shariatpur meeting.
National Citizen Party (NCP) leaders have alleged the BNP-led government of allowing syndicates to inflate liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) prices and favouring party members and relatives in fertiliser dealership appointments.
NCP Convener and Opposition Chief Whip Nahid Islam alleged that a syndicate was profiting from repeated increases in LPG cylinder prices, while Sarjis Alam, the party's chief coordinator for the northern region, accused the government of prioritising political and family connections over merit in selecting fertiliser dealers.
They made the allegations at a citizens' meeting organised by the NCP at the Shariatpur Municipality Auditorium at 11am today (13 October).
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Nahid said LPG cylinder prices stood at Tk1,200 after the election but had since increased several times. Although the official price was around Tk1,800, cylinders were selling for Tk2,500–Tk2,600 in the market, he claimed.
He alleged that a syndicate had driven prices up two to three times, allowing the BNP and its leaders and activists to profit at the expense of ordinary consumers.
Criticising the government's management of energy and power supplies, Nahid said inadequate gas supplies were forcing factories to shut down, while electricity shortages and rising commodity prices were worsening the hardships faced by ordinary people.
NCP raises concerns over fertiliser dealerships
Speaking at the meeting, Sarjis Alam alleged that political affiliation and family connections were being prioritised over business qualifications and experience in appointing fertiliser dealers.
He claimed dealership opportunities were being allocated based on applicants' relationships with influential political figures, citing the sons of MPs, wives of local BNP leaders and relatives, including children and brothers-in-law, of powerful individuals.
Sarjis alleged that such practices were pushing the country towards a system of oppression and persecution similar to what people had experienced over the past 16 years.
Leaders warn against election interference
On the upcoming local government elections, Nahid urged party activists to remain vigilant against political interference, pressure on the administration and electoral manipulation. He stressed the need to ensure free and fair polls.
Nahid also alleged that people were being deprived of their rights by the Awami League operating from abroad and the BNP at home, accusing both parties of obstructing the establishment of democracy.
NCP leaders also discussed the country's political situation, people's rights and preparations for the upcoming local government elections at the meeting.
