Strict action against extortion at cattle markets: State Minister

On the occasion of the upcoming Eid-ul-Azha, State Minister for Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives, Mir Shahe Alam, has warned that no kind of extortion will be tolerated at the animal markets for sacrificial animals. He clearly stated that there will be no extortion at the cattle markets. However, strict action will be taken if extortion occurs.

He gave this assurance while talking to journalists after visiting the Gabtoli Animal Market in the capital on Wednesday morning (May 6).

Regarding the issue of stopping harassment in animal transport on roads and highways, the State Minister said that the government will take a strict stance to prevent extortion on the roads while transporting sacrificial animals. If any incident of extortion occurs on the roads, immediate action will be taken.

Referring to the government's preparations to alleviate public suffering and traffic congestion centered around the livestock market, he said that appropriate plans have been taken to ensure that there is no traffic jam on the road while bringing animals. Markets cannot be set up next to railway lines and on roads.

Regarding the setting up of markets outside the approved boundaries, the State Minister for Local Government said that no one will be able to set up a market in an unauthorized place. No one will be able to keep animals even outside the boundaries of the market.

Regarding the overall security arrangements for the market, Mir Shahe Alam said that the army and RAB will be present for the security of the markets along with the police. In addition, the lessees will also have their own volunteers.

He also said that initiatives have been taken to implement some recommendations received from various parties and accordingly, the lessees and the administration will work in coordination.