Allegations of corruption, irregularities, abuse of power, and misconduct against two officials of the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) have frustrated the farmers in Chuadanga District. The accused officials are Deputy Director (DD) Md. Masudur Rahman and Sub-Assistant Plant Protection Officer Md. Abdul Wahed of Damurhuda Upazila.
Farmers claim they are being forced to purchase agricultural inputs at inflated prices due to unavailability through official channels. Many have submitted written complaints to the Upazila Agriculture Office, reporting that even after paying extra fees, licenses are often delayed or not issued at all.
Local farmers are calling for an immediate and impartial investigation, warning that failure to ensure accountability could further destabilize the agricultural sector. They demand swift measures to guarantee transparency, accountability, and effective agricultural management.
According to complaints, Deputy Director Md. Masudur Rahman is accused of negligence and frequent absence from his duties.
Since joining the department, he has reportedly spent extended periods in the office guest room rather than actively overseeing operations. His family resides in Rangpur, and he is said to leave Chuadanga every Thursday, returning on Sunday.
Farmers and department insiders claim this routine absence has disrupted key agricultural activities, including fertilizer distribution monitoring, field-level supervision, and administrative coordination. Officials, speaking anonymously, stated that his inconsistent presence has weakened accountability among subordinate staff, allowing irregularities to proliferate.
A major concern among farmers is an alleged artificial fertilizer shortage and corresponding price inflation. While fertilizers supplied by the Bangladesh Chemical Industries Corporation (BCIC) are reportedly unavailable to local dealers, they are easily obtainable in the open market at higher prices.
Monir Hossain, a farmer from Garabaria, stated that fertilizers officially priced at around Tk 1,000 are being sold for up to Tk 1,600 in the open market. Farmers claim they are compelled to purchase inputs at inflated prices due to unavailability through official channels. Some sources allege the existence of a syndicate, with claims that certain officers are colluding with dealers and receiving commissions.
Abdul Wahed faces more extensive accusations. He is alleged to have collected excessive fees for pesticide licenses and renewals. While government fees are Tk 345 for new licenses and Tk 230 for renewals, applicants reportedly have been charged several times higher.
