Member of Parliament Rumin Farhana has called for accountability over alleged irregularities and financial losses in the stock market, stating that those responsible have not been brought to justice. She made the remarks in Parliament on Thursday.
The sitting of the first session of the 13th National Parliament began in the morning, presided over by Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmed Bir Bikrom. During the proceedings, Ms Farhana raised concerns regarding the condition of the capital market, alleged financial misconduct, and the lack of judicial action against those implicated.
She stated in Parliament that, according to her claim, over the past 15 years more than one trillion Bangladeshi taka had been siphoned from the stock market through what she described as a particular group. She emphasised that the funds in question belonged to ordinary investors who had placed their life savings into the capital market.
Ms Farhana further stated that the individuals or groups responsible for these alleged activities had not been subjected to judicial proceedings or accountability measures. She argued that the absence of legal action had contributed to a continued lack of confidence among investors.
During her speech, she urged the Finance Minister to ensure that those responsible for the alleged stock market irregularities are brought under a framework of accountability. She also called for reforms in the regulatory structure of the capital market.
In particular, she referred to the Bangladesh Securities and Exchange Commission, the principal regulatory authority of the capital market, and emphasised the need to appoint qualified personnel to the organisation. According to her statement, strengthening the competence of the regulatory body is essential to restoring confidence in the capital market.
Key Points Raised in Parliament
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Speaker | Rumin Farhana, Member of Parliament |
| Occasion | 13th National Parliament, 1st Session |
| Presiding Officer | Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmed Bir Bikrom |
| Main Allegation | Stock market funds allegedly misappropriated |
| Claimed Amount | Over BDT 1 trillion in 15 years |
| Affected Group | Ordinary investors |
| Alleged Perpetrators | A specific group (as stated) |
| Action Sought | Judicial accountability and regulatory reform |
| Institution Mentioned | Bangladesh Securities and Exchange Commission |
Ms Farhana’s statement highlighted concerns regarding investor protection, regulatory effectiveness, and enforcement mechanisms within the capital market. She reiterated that restoring trust in the stock market requires both accountability for past irregularities and improvements in institutional governance.