Allegations of major irregularities have surfaced in the distribution of government rice assistance for fishermen in Faridpur under the jatka conservation program. Although each fisherman is supposed to receive 160 kilograms of rice for four months as compensation for not catching fish during the government-imposed ban, many claim they have received only 60 kilograms.
According to local sources, fishermen are prohibited from catching jatka (juvenile hilsa) for several months each year to protect fish stocks. To support their livelihoods during this period, the government provides food assistance. However, significant discrepancies have reportedly appeared between the allocated amount and the quantity actually distributed in Faridpur Sadar Upazila.
Data show that a total of 104.48 metric tons of rice was allocated for 653 registered fishermen in the upazila. If each fisherman received 60 kilograms, the total distributed amount would be 39.18 metric tons. This leaves roughly 65.3 metric tons of rice unaccounted for, raising serious questions and concerns among locals.
When contacted, the local fisheries officer said the allocation was insufficient, forcing authorities to distribute smaller quantities among more beneficiaries. Meanwhile, a local Union Parishad chairman claimed that the rice was distributed on humanitarian grounds to a larger number of fishermen.
However, locals argue that the explanation does not match the numbers. Even if 1,400 fishermen were given 60 kilograms each, the total requirement would be 84 metric tons, while the allocation stood at 104 metric tons. This discrepancy has intensified suspicions about possible misappropriation.
One fisherman, speaking on condition of anonymity, said,
โWe are supposed to receive 160 kilograms of rice, but we were given only 60 kilograms. We are afraid to question it because they might cancel our cards.
The issue has triggered growing concern and criticism in the area. Local residents are demanding a proper investigation to ensure that government assistance intended for poor fishermen reaches the rightful beneficiaries.
Experts say the success of the jatka conservation program largely depends on ensuring that the promised support reaches fishermen. Therefore, they emphasize the need for transparency and accountability in the distribution process.
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