A legal notice has been served to lifestyle brand Aarong, instructing the company to immediately halt charging customers extra for shopping bags after purchases. The move follows growing concern that such charges violate consumer rights and contravene ethical retail practices in Bangladesh.
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Notice Issued by Supreme Court Lawyer
The notice was issued on Sunday, 15 March 2026, by Saddam Hossain Obhi, a lawyer of the Supreme Court of Bangladesh. It was formally delivered via registered post to the Secretary of Commerce, the Director General of the National Consumer Rights Protection Department, and the Managing Director of Aarong.
The notice states that if Aarong fails to take corrective action within 15 days of receipt, a writ petition may be filed in the High Court Division of the Supreme Court in the public interest.
Allegations and Consumer Concerns
According to the notice, since 1 September 2025, Aarong has been collecting extra fees from customers for shopping bags instead of providing them free of charge. Observers note that no other major retailer in Bangladesh engages in this practice. Over recent months, customers have reported being compelled to carry purchased items in hand, generating widespread criticism on social media.
Mr Obhi emphasised that the practice places financial and psychological burdens on consumers. Moreover, it violates basic principles of business ethics and could encourage other brands to adopt similar practices, potentially undermining consumer protection across the retail sector.
The notice calls on Aarong to immediately cease charging for shopping bags and directs the Consumer Rights Protection Department to investigate and take legal action if violations are confirmed. It also demands that all future customers receive free bags with their purchases.
Key Details from the Notice
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand | Aarong |
| Issue | Charging extra for shopping bags |
| Legal Authority | Supreme Court lawyer Saddam Hossain Obhi |
| Notice Sent To | Secretary of Commerce; Director General, Consumer Rights Protection Department; MD of Aarong |
| Date of Notice | 15 March 2026 |
| Compliance Deadline | 15 days from receipt |
| Legal Consequence | Writ petition in High Court if ignored |
| Consumer Impact | Financial and psychological burden; ethical concerns |
Wider Implications
The notice has sparked debate over consumer rights and corporate responsibility in Bangladesh. Advocates stress that businesses must provide essential services like shopping bags without extra charge, reinforcing ethical retail standards.
As the 15-day compliance window approaches, all eyes are on Aarong to see whether it will voluntarily adhere to the notice or face potential litigation in the Supreme Court, a move that could set a landmark precedent for consumer protection nationwide.