In Mathbaria, Pirojpur, reports have surfaced that fishers were allegedly asked to pay 100 BDT per person during the distribution of VGF (Vulnerable Group Feeding) rice for the 2025–26 fiscal year. The programme, designed to support families of fishers who had temporarily suspended jatka (juvenile hilsa) fishing, became the centre of local controversy over claims of irregularities and attempted levies.
Dispute During Distribution
The distribution programme was officially inaugurated on Thursday, 12 March 2026, by Upazila BRDB Officer and Amragachhia Union Administrator, Md. Tarikul Islam. According to multiple reports, local Union Parishad (UP) members initially began collecting 100 BDT per fisher, prompting protests from the recipients. Following the unrest, authorities subsequently ensured that rice was distributed without any monetary collection.
Shahid Howlader, a local fisher from Hoglapati village, stated that upon arriving to collect his rice, he was informed of the charge by UP member Harun Or Rashid. While some fishers complied, others protested, creating tension that necessitated intervention by the administration.
Another beneficiary, Gaffar Hossain, claimed that officials threatened to reduce rice allocations from 80 kg to 70 kg per fisher if the payment was not made, further fuelling community discontent. The matter was eventually resolved peacefully, with all intended recipients receiving the full allocation.
Administrative Clarifications
Officials emphasised that this year’s distribution follows government guidelines, intended to benefit 660 unemployed fishers across nine wards of Amragachhia Union. Each fisher is to receive 80 kg of rice, and no charges are now being collected.
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 supervision, which sometimes caused confusion. This year, distribution is being conducted under the new Union Administrator, strictly adhering to official protocols.
Md. Tarikul Islam clarified: “The initial 100 BDT per person was intended to cover transport costs, but following protests, the rice is now being distributed free of charge, in accordance with government policy.”
Programme Overview
The VGF rice distribution is a humanitarian initiative by the Upazila administration and Department of Fisheries. It specifically targets fishers who have temporarily suspended jatka fishing to support the conservation of juvenile hilsa.
| Beneficiary Group | Number of Fishers | Rice Allocation per Person | Payment Collected | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amragachhia Union fishers | 660 | 80 kg | Initially 100 BDT, later waived | Distributed free under government guidelines |
| Wards Covered | 9 | – | – | Full distribution completed |
The incident underscores the importance of transparent processes and strict adherence to government guidelines in social welfare initiatives. Authorities and community leaders are urged to maintain vigilance to prevent misunderstandings, ensure equitable access, and safeguard the integrity of programmes designed for vulnerable populations.