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People from the previous government used to do this, and I’m not saying here who is doing it now. But ultimately, the cost of this extortion falls on consumers because traders incorporate it into product prices. So extortion is contributing to inflation.”

In response, reserved-seat MP Mahmuda said, “The honourable MP says extortion is taking place in his area, yet he does not know who is involved. Nothing could be more unfortunate. He should have a clear list of those engaged in extortion and should go to the law enforcement authorities with that list.

“If anyone engages in extortion in my constituency, whether from the ruling party or outside it, I will declare war against them and certainly take legal action. Therefore, I reject the Jamaat MP’s claims.”

In response to Mahmuda’s counter, Saiful said, “Earlier, people from the ruling party used to engage in extortion, and even now it is people from the ruling party who are doing it.

“The biggest extortion hub in my area is Karwan Bazar. Previously, the former home minister himself was involved in extortion. He is from my neighbourhood, and I know everything clearly.”

Saiful mentioned he had discussed the matter with Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed. “I sought his [home minister’s] cooperation. A minister advised me to discuss the issue with the prime minister. I want the extortion taking place in Karwan Bazar, the Mohakhali Bus Terminal and the Tejgaon area to stop.”

Saiful further said corruption is the biggest problem in Bangladesh. “The most instrumental people in enabling tax evasion are those involved in tax collection themselves. They are the ones who advise businesspeople and individuals on how to evade taxes.”

To stop wasteful spending, he suggested revisiting contracts with power companies. “We are paying people [companies] sitting idle in the name of capacity charges. Those who made these agreements should also be brought under punishment.”