Mobile traders vandalise BTRC office amid NEIR launch

Violence erupted at the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) office in Capital’s Agargaon on Thursday afternoon, as mobile traders protested the launch of the National Equipment Identity Register (NEIR).

The incident occurred around 4:25 PM when a group of traders reportedly threw bricks and stones, damaging office property. The launch of the NEIR, a system for mandatory mobile handset registration, had sparked discontent among mobile phone sellers, who fear business disruptions and increased compliance requirements.

Tejgaon Division Deputy Commissioner Ibn-e-Mizan confirmed the unrest, saying, “They launched an abrupt attack, hurling bricks. We are trying to manage the situation.” A BTRC official added that the vandals targeted the office premises, causing significant damage.

This is not the first such protest; a similar incident took place last month when mobile traders clashed with regulators over NEIR implementation. Police and authorities are currently working to restore order and ensure the NEIR system continues functioning despite the disruptions.

NEIR was officially activated on Thursday as part of Bangladesh’s ongoing efforts to regulate mobile handset usage and curb illegal imports. Authorities have urged traders to cooperate with the registration process while assuring that safety and business continuity will be maintained.