Allegations of irregularities in the distribution of government fertiliser and agricultural incentives have been raised against Nuruzzaman, the sub-assistant agriculture officer responsible for KDK union in Jibannagar upazila of Chuadanga. Several local farmers allege that government fertiliser is being distributed through retail fertiliser sellers, depriving ordinary farmers, and that illegal payments are taken in the process.
Local sources claim that fake fertiliser cards have been made in real and fictitious names for about 20 retail fertiliser shops in KDK union, and that fertiliser is allocated on those cards and on special slips signed by the officer. A commission of Tk 300 to Tk 400 a sack is allegedly taken when fertiliser is distributed this way. There are also allegations of irregularities in the distribution of government agricultural incentives. Local farmers allege that genuine farmers are being deprived of the fertiliser and farming advice they need while some traders receive extra benefits.
Several farmers of KDK union, including Inamul, Israil, Ibrahim and Khalil, said: “When we go to the agriculture officer for fertiliser for our fields and for advice, he is often not available. Yet instead of giving fertiliser to us directly, he gives shopkeepers five to 10 sacks at a time on fake cards and slips. In return, large sums of money are taken from the shopkeepers.”
Sub-assistant agriculture officer Nuruzzaman has denied the allegations. Contacted on his mobile phone, he said the allegations against him were not true.
An official in charge at the district Department of Agricultural Extension said the matter would be looked into. If a written complaint is received it will be investigated, and if the allegations are proved, administrative action will be taken against the officer concerned under the rules, the official said.
বাংলায় মূল প্রতিবেদন পড়ুন · Read the original Bengali report