PM orders strict action on food safety, anti-adulteration measures

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has directed authorities to identify and swiftly resolve existing problems of institutions responsible for ensuring food safety, quality control and anti-adulteration drives. He also ordered the formation of a three-member high-level committee to make these institutions more dynamic.

The prime minister ordered the formation of the committee comprising his Adviser for Public Administration Ismail Jabullah, State Minister for Public Administration Abdul Bari and Cabinet Secretary Dr Nasimul Ghani. He instructed the committee to submit a report within one month, identifying both short-term and long-term problems with specific recommendations.

The directives were given at a special meeting at the Prime Minister's Office in the Secretariat on Monday afternoon, July 6. The meeting was attended by officials from the Directorate of Consumer Rights, Bangladesh Safe Food Authority, BSTI, city corporations and other officers involved in anti-adulteration drives and mobile courts at the field level.

Field-level officers highlighted various obstacles they face in carrying out their duties, including manpower shortages, infrastructure deficits, security risks and legal limitations. The prime minister listened to their concerns and assured them of swift solutions.

Addressing the officials, the prime minister said, "Problems will always exist. But we must move forward despite those problems. Sitting idle is not an option. Many countries were once less developed than us, yet they have moved far ahead. We must also move forward. If everyone works together with sincerity, it is certainly possible. Everyone must become more responsible and aware in the national interest."

The prime minister emphasised not only government initiatives but also the goodwill of citizens in nation-building. Citing the example of Gulshan Lake, he expressed regret, saying, "Many of our lakes are being filled with garbage, and sadly, it is educated people who are dumping this waste. Those who should be aware often are not." He noted that citizens' responsibility is also needed to change the country.

The meeting was attended by Prime Minister's Principal Secretary Abdus Sattar, Commerce Secretary Ataur Rahman Khan, Prime Minister's Additional Press Secretary Atiqur Rahman Rumon and BSTI Director General Kazi Imdadul Haque.