Fisheries and Livestock Adviser Farida Akhtar has said that real fishermen do not break the law by catching jatka, the juvenile hilsa fish.
She made the remark while speaking as the chief guest at a view-exchange meeting held at a fish market in Jatrabari on the occasion of Jatka Conservation Week 2025.
Farida Akhtar strongly criticised those who engage in illegal jatka fishing, describing them as unethical traders rather than genuine fishermen.
“A true fisherman respects the law and protects our natural resources. Those who catch jatka for profit are harming the nation and acting like corrupt businessmen,” she said.
During her speech, she also announced plans for the construction of a modern fish market complex in Jatrabari, where facilities will be improved and sections for different types of fish and products will be properly organized.
She assured fish traders and shopkeepers of increased security and mentioned that discussions with the Home Ministry are underway to address their safety concerns.
Urging all involved in the trade to maintain ethical practices, she warned against unnecessary price hikes in the fish market, saying such actions burden consumers and hurt the overall economy.
The meeting was chaired by the Director General of the Department of Fisheries, Dr Md Abdur Rouf. Deputy Director of Dhaka Division Md Monirul Islam delivered the welcome address.
