Allegations of corruption and mismanagement have triggered unrest among rice traders and mill owners in Sirajganj, following reported moves by food department officials to enlist a controversial auto rice mill as a government supplier despite alleged non-compliance with procurement and environmental rules.
Local traders claim that the District Food Controller, in coordination with the Raiganj Upazila Food Officer, has initiated steps to include Riya Auto Rice Mill of Chandaikona in the government procurement list, allegedly justifying the move by citing a pending High Court case. Critics, however, argue that the mill does not meet mandatory eligibility criteria.
According to procurement guidelines, only mills with valid and updated licences are eligible to supply rice to government godowns. Traders allege that some mills with expired or incomplete documentation are seeking allocation through lobbying and undue influence, while compliant mills risk being sidelined.
Several mill owners, speaking anonymously, warned that allowing unauthorised mills to participate would undermine fair competition and discourage lawful business practices. “If expired licence holders receive allocation, there is no incentive to follow the rules,” one trader said.
The controversy has also raised environmental concerns. Riya Auto Rice Mill has previously been fined by the Department of Environment for violations and reportedly failed to fulfil the required conditions within the stipulated time, resulting in the expiry of its environmental clearance.
Local civic groups allege that irregularities in the allocation process have persisted for years, including the misuse of multiple licences under single ownership, leading to the alleged embezzlement of large sums from government procurement. They warn that such practices threaten market stability, farmers’ fair prices and the integrity of the public food supply system.
Tensions have escalated in Raiganj, with traders threatening protests, including human chains and rallies, unless the authorities exclude unauthorised mills and ensure transparency.
When contacted, Raiganj Upazila Food Officer Sirajul Islam Sarker was unavailable for comment. District Food Controller Harun-ur-Rashid defended the move, citing the pending High Court case and stating that environmental compliance falls under the Department of Environment, adding that an operational mill with an active electricity connection could be considered for enlistment.
Local stakeholders have urged higher authorities to intervene and conduct an impartial review to restore accountability and public confidence in the food procurement process.
Selim Reza, Sirajganj
