EXTORTION on footpaths has been associated with our everyday experience. It is a very common phenomenon in Dhaka City. But the police and people involved with it deny it. It has been going on for years together and every political party overlooks it. Every day, millions of Taka are being churned out of the footpaths and shared by various quarters. That is why no one is able to free footpaths from hawkers. Linemen are seen collecting money from the hawkers and the rate of extortion depends on the location and size of the shop.
If anyone refuses to pay fixed money he gets beaten up by the goons. We see news in media about extortion from the small traders but nothing happens as a vested quarter is involved in the whole process. I hope the city mayors will be soon vocal against extortion and take immediate steps to stop it once and for all.
Moinuddin
Mirpur, Dhaka
- Friday, 19 April 2024 |
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