Leading rights activists on Wednesday staged a human chain at Malibag in the city demanding prohibition of import, sales and distribution of formalin in the open market.
The Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry organised the human chain attended, among others, by Ain O Salish Kendra executive director Sultana Kamal, Bangladesh Environmental Lawyers Association chief executive Rizwana Hasan, Consumer Association of Bangladesh president Kazi Faruk, Dhaka University vice-chancellor AAMS Arefin Siddique, actor Rokeya Prachi, and FBCCI vice-president Monowara Hakim.
From the human chain they demanded handing over control of import, sales and distribution of formalin to state-run Trading Corporation of Bangladesh.
They also demanded formulation of ‘Formalin Control Act’ in the next session of parliament to ensure strict punishment against misuse of formalin.
Formalin, a chemical solution, is widely used for preservation in textiles and leather industries. But its use in fish and foodstuff has long-lasting effects on public health, for which people may eventually suffer from fatal diseases like cancer.
FBCCI is currently leading a campaign against the use of formalin in foodstuff.
Speaking on the occasion, Sultana Kamal said people also needed to play their role seriously to prevent the use of formalin in food items.
‘We also have to reject the markets and shops which sale formalin mixed food. If we can reject them socially, they will be bound to run their business in proper manner,’ she said.
‘The use of formalin in food items is a serious concern for public health and the government should take immediate steps to address this problem,’ said Arefin Siddique.
He said besides awareness campaigns, the government should formulate laws to control the use of formalin.
The FBCCI vice-president said they would continue to run the campaign countrywide to press the government to formulate laws for controlling the misuse of formalin.
Participants at the human chain also urged the government to address the issue with sincerity as it relates to public health.
-With New Age input
