Jahid Hossain :
Hundreds of street vendors in the Sadarghat area are finally feeling safe after a dramatic drop in extortion following the departure of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on August 5, 2024.
However, their efforts to earn a living were often marred by rampant extortion throughout the city.
Before August 5, extortion was widespread, allegedly involving local leaders of the ruling Awami League (AL), as well as members of the police and Ansar forces. Street vendors were forced to pay hefty sums just to secure their spots on the footpath. Those who resisted were subjected to intimidation and violence.
As a result, after an entire day of work, vendors would return home with little to show for their efforts, as most of their earnings went to extortionists.
The fall of the government has brought about a significant shift. Extortion in the capital, particularly in Old Dhaka’s Sadarghat area, has come to a near halt, thanks to the collective efforts of students and the general public.
Footpath vendors report being able to conduct business peacefully for the first time in years. When visiting Old Dhaka on Thursday The New Nation reporter spoke to several vendors who confirmed that extortion in the area had stopped.
Just a few days ago, they were required to pay large sums regularly. Shamsul Haque, a fruit seller in Badamtoli, Old Dhaka, shared that he used to pay 200 taka daily to Chhatra League members and other Awami League-affiliated groups.
He also alleged that the City Corporation, police, and Ansar personnel were involved in collecting these payments. “There were days when, even after selling all day, I didn’t make a profit, but we still had to pay,” he said.
“Now, we can work without that burden.
“Sha Alam, a second-hand bag seller in Sadarghat, echoed these sentiments, stating, “We used to pay 200 to 250 taka a day. Leaders from the Jagannath University Chhatra League collected the money.
“I used to pay 100 taka daily to be able to work here. Since the change in power, no one has come to collect extortion. Now, I can make a living peacefully and take care of my children.”While small businesses have welcomed the recent changes, they are calling for more permanent solutions.
Vendors urge the interim government to implement long-term measures to ensure that extortion is eradicated once and for all, allowing them to sustain their livelihoods without fear.
(Jahid Hossain is an intern of The New Nation)