State Minister Ishraque wages ‘war’ against price-gouging before Ramadan

He warns that “mafias' kitchens” will go cold if the poor cannot afford daily meals

State Minister for Liberation War Affairs Ishraque Hossain has pledged strict action against market syndicates and those hoarding goods to spike prices during Ramadan.

He announced on Wednesday on his verified Facebook page his zero-tolerance policy against those creating artificial crises and increasing prices of foods, cooking oil, and essential commodities during Ramadan.

In the social media post, he specifically addressed major industrial conglomerates and suppliers, including Bashundhara Group, Fresh, City Group, TK Group, Nabil Group, and ACI Limited, cautioning wholesalers and those involved in hoarding against disrupting the market.

“No one will be spared, regardless of their connections to high-profile leaders, ministers, or government officials. I have declared war against all mafias,” he wrote in his post.

He stated the fight against mafias would commence in his constituency and would be expanded nationwide if necessary.

He concluded the post with a stark warning: the mafias' own kitchens will go cold if ordinary, low-income citizens are unable to afford their daily meals.