The managing director of “Nobin Panjabi,” a clothing brand known for selling affordable Panjabi outfits, has left the country alleging threats and pressure following a recent situation surrounding his business.
In a social media post announcing his departure, Nobin Hashemi mentioned that he departed via Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport on Tuesday evening, citing security concerns.
Earlier in the day, at a press conference held in the capital’s Moghbazar, Hashemi alleged that he had been receiving threats since Monday.
“I have been getting calls from different numbers asking me to delete certain videos. They warned that if I do not comply, my other businesses will also be shut down,” he said.
Allegations over shop closure
Hashemi claimed that a day before Eid, a group of businessmen, along with law enforcement, forced the closure of his shop in Moghbazar and harassed customers.
He alleged that he was told not to sell Panjabi below Tk4,500 and pajamas below Tk1,500 in the market.
The businessman said he had started his venture during the Covid-19 pandemic with the aim of providing affordable clothes.
He also claimed that his organisation employs disadvantaged groups, including people with disabilities and those recovering from drug addiction.
Viral video
A video circulating on social media shows a shop being shut down in Moghbazar. In the footage, a person identified as Michael, owner of a business named “Prince,” is heard stating that lower-priced Panjabi and pajamas cannot be sold in the market.
The video has since drawn attention online.
Police response
Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) said it was not aware of any death threat against the businessman.
Deputy Commissioner of DMP’s Media and Public Relations Division Muhammad Talebur Rahman told Dhaka Tribune: “We are not aware of any such threat.”
He added that legal action would be taken if any allegation of negligence or requests for security were formally brought to the authorities.
