Vehicle importers, dealers protest against attacks, extortion at car showrooms
The Bangladesh Reconditioned Vehicles Importers and Dealers Association (Barvida) and car showroom owners have staged a human chain protest in the capital, condemning recent attacks and extortion attempts targeting their businesses.
The protest was held today (19 October) at the Coca-Cola intersection in Pragati Sarani, where participants demanded the immediate arrest of those responsible.
All car sales centres across the country remained closed from 10am to 2pm in solidarity. A press conference followed the demonstration.
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Barvida President Abdul Haque said, "Criminal gangs have attacked and vandalised 12 showrooms in different areas of the capital. The attackers are openly threatening that businesses will not be allowed to operate unless extortion money is paid."
He added that the government earns about Tk6,000 crore in annual revenue from the reconditioned car sector, which supports the livelihoods of hundreds of thousands of people.
"Their livelihoods are now under threat. We urge the government and law enforcement agencies to arrest the culprits and ensure justice," he said.
Haque warned that if no effective measures are taken by 30 October, Barvida would suspend the release of cars, registration fees, and revenue payments nationwide.
"We know the police and RAB have started investigations, but no one has been arrested yet. If the situation continues, we will be forced to announce tougher programmes," he said.
He stressed that Barvida is not aligned with any political party. "We represent entrepreneurs who contribute to the national economy. Our demand is for security and stability in business," he said.
