B Mirror Desk : Debapriya Bhattacharya, an Honorary Fellow of CPD and the Head of the White Paper Preparation Committee on Economy, stated that many small and medium investors have fallen into poverty due to political influence. They have also identified individuals lacking institutional support. Share prices have been artificially inflated through manipulation. This is the primary issue within the capital market: the absence of punishment for manipulators. Consequently, the capital market cannot be remedied with quick fixes.

He made these remarks during a discussion titled ‘Capital Market in Political Discussions of Bangladesh: Philosophy and Practice,’ organized by the DSE Brokers Association of Bangladesh (DBA) on Saturday (May 24).

He pointed out that influential political figures in the country have had a significant impact on the capital market. Between 1996 and 1998, Tk 20,000 crore was withdrawn from the market. The legal requirements for filing cases at that time were not adhered to; instead, actions taken were driven by ulterior motives.

He further noted that the turmoil in the capital market has adversely affected the economy. Currently, there have been no Initial Public Offerings (IPOs). The capital market serves as a long-term financing institution, and it is not in its nature to operate on a day-to-day basis. Immediate measures are necessary to rectify this market; we must escape the current stagnation. Trust among participants is essential. If the market remains uncorrected, it indicates a deeper issue.

Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury, a member of the BNP Standing Committee, attended the seminar as a special guest. Additionally, BSEC Commissioner Md. Mohsin Chowdhury, Jamaat Islam Central Executive Council Member Md. Mubarak Hossain, Policy Exchange Bangladesh Chairman Dr. Mashrur Riaz, National Citizens Committee (NCP) Joint Convener Dr. Tajnuva Jabin, ICMAB President Mahtab Uddin Ahmed, and others participated as panelists.