Photo: Courtesy
Gausul Azam Super Market, the bustling commercial hub in Nilkhet, Dhaka, is now engulfed in flames of conflict over control. Once a symbol of disciplined trade and trust for businessmen, the market is now caught in a web of fear and uncertainty. Allegations have surfaced that a former student leader of the Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal (JCD) has seized control of the market using political influence following the recent political upheaval. This has left the livelihoods of traders in jeopardy.
Established in the late 2000s by businessman Motaleb Mia, Gausul Azam Super Market became a reliable center for commerce under his efficient management. For over two decades, he successfully maintained harmony among traders, regardless of political affiliations.
However, the political realignment following the fall of the Awami League government on August 5 has cast its shadow on the market. Reports claim that Kamal Hossain, a former Joint Secretary of the Dhaka Metropolitan North JCD, entered the market with an armed group, threatened Motaleb Mia, and forcibly removed him from his position.
Following the altercation, a severely injured Motaleb Mia had to be hospitalized. The group that now controls the market is reportedly engaged in extortion, cutting off electricity supplies, and intimidating traders.
One trader shared, “Running our business has become a nightmare. They demand extortion money every day. Without electricity, we can’t even work properly. Complaints to the authorities have gone unanswered.”
Another trader remarked, “Under Motaleb Bhai’s leadership, we worked in peace. Now, we live in constant fear. Anyone who refuses to pay extortion is threatened with shop closures.”
In a bid to restore stability, the traders have submitted a written appeal to the Cooperative Department, calling for a fair and transparent election to manage the market.
Efforts to contact Kamal Hossain for his response were unsuccessful. Meanwhile, the Officer-in-Charge (OC) of the New Market Police Station stated, “We have received complaints and are investigating the matter with utmost importance. Measures will be taken promptly to ensure the safety of traders and normalize the situation.”
Messenger/Tareq
