Allegations of Revenue Evasion and Irregularities at Benapool Port Raised in Parliament
In a recent session of the Jatiya Sangsad, Jashore-1 Member of Parliament Ms. Sabira Sultana Munni brought national attention to massive revenue deficits and systemic corruption at the Benapool land port. Speaking under Rule 71 of the Rules of Procedure, she highlighted that while Benapool handles a major share of Bangladesh-India trade, government collections have been severely undermined by syndicate dominance, digital scale manipulation, false declarations, and commission trading. She pointed out that for the 2025-26 fiscal year, Benapool Customs recorded a staggering deficit of 4,731 crore BDT, failing to meet its revised target of 11,290 crore BDT by collecting only 6,599 crore BDT.
The parliamentary disclosures follow mounting concerns over illicit cargo clearance and revenue evasion across multiple port sheds, including sheds 12, 15, 29, 30, 41, and 42. National Intelligence Agency reports and recent incidents have exposed deep-seated collusion involving dishonest customs officials, port employees, importers, and C&F agents. A notable case involved the unauthorized removal of three trucks from Shed 29 carrying approximately 5 crore BDT worth of undeclared cosmetics, sarees, and garments without paying duties, handled by C&F agent Pratyoy Enterprise for importer Sadia Enterprise.
Swift administrative repercussions have followed these revelations at the port level, prompting customs authorities to review CCTV footage and take immediate disciplinary action. Assistant Revenue Officers Mr. Tarikul Islam and Mr. Shahidullah Islam have been officially relieved of their duties and attached to the public administration branch, while a dedicated three-member committee has been established to investigate the widespread operational irregularities. Additional scrutiny has also targeted shipments in Shed 12 and Shed 30, where attempts were reportedly made to bypass proper inspection volumes and undervalue imported imitation goods.
As business owners and relevant stakeholders demand rigorous monitoring and impartial investigations, all eyes remain fixed on the National Board of Revenue and Benapool Customs House. MP Sabira Sultana Munni’s outspoken stance has intensified pressure on regulatory bodies to dismantle the entrenched syndicates operating within the facility. Observers note that restoring transparency and accountability will be critical to reclaiming lost revenue and ensuring the port operates as a reliable economic driver for the nation.
