Allegations of Bribe in VGF Rice Distribution

In Mathbaria, Pirojpur, allegations have emerged that fishers were being charged 100 BDT per person during the distribution of VGF (Vulnerable Group Feeding) rice for the 2025–26 fiscal year. The scheme, aimed at supporting families of fishers who had temporarily ceased jatka (juvenile hilsa) fishing, faced local controversy over reported irregularities in implementation.

Controversy During Distribution

The rice distribution programme was inaugurated on Thursday, 12 March 2026, by Upazila BRDB Officer and Amragachhia Union Administrator, Md. Tarikul Islam. According to reports, when collection of 100 BDT per fisher began under the supervision of local Union Parishad (UP) members, several fishers protested. Following initial tensions, the administration later distributed the rice without collecting any money from the beneficiaries.

One local fisher, Shahid Howlader from Hoglapati village, claimed that upon arriving at the Union Parishad to receive the rice, he was informed that each fisher would need to pay 100 BDT. Local UP member Harun Or Rashid allegedly demanded the amount from every fisher. While some complied, protests erupted among others who refused, leading authorities to reconsider the collection.

Another beneficiary, Gaffar Hossain, stated that UP officials reportedly pressured fishers to pay 100 BDT, warning that failure to comply would reduce their rice allocation from 80 kg to 70 kg per person. The incident caused significant unrest among the community until the situation was resolved peacefully.

Administrative Clarification

Officials emphasised that rice distribution this year follows government guidelines and is intended to benefit 660 unemployed fishers across nine wards of Amragachhia Union. Each fisher is to receive 80 kg of rice, distributed fairly and without undue charges.

Partha Protim Howlader, Tag Officer of Amragachhia Union and Upazila Assistant Agriculture Officer, noted that in previous years, rice was distributed under the UP chairman’s oversight, sometimes causing confusion. This year, the programme is conducted under the new Union Administrator, adhering strictly to official protocols.

Md. Tarikul Islam, Upazila BRDB Officer and Union Administrator, explained: “We initially set 100 BDT per person to cover transport costs, but following protests from fishers, the rice is now being distributed free of charge, in line with government directives.”

Programme Overview

The VGF rice distribution is part of a humanitarian assistance initiative led by the Upazila administration and Department of Fisheries. It specifically targets fishers who have temporarily halted jatka fishing to conserve juvenile hilsa.

The programme demonstrates an ongoing effort to provide targeted support to vulnerable fisher communities, while also highlighting the need for clear communication and strict adherence to government policies to prevent misunderstandings and ensure transparency.