Bangladesh govt warns of strict action against protesting NBR officials

Dhaka, Jun 29 (PTI) Bangladesh’s interim government on Sunday warned the protesting officials of the National Board of Revenue (NBR) to return to work immediately and refrain from any “illegal and destructive activities”, otherwise it will be forced to take strict action.

The interim government also declared all jobs in the organisation an “essential service”, as revenue officials enforced a “complete shutdown” for a second consecutive day.

Officials under the banner of NBR Reform Unity Council demand the removal of the board’s chairman and put an end to what they call "vengeful transfers".

They also demand a sustainable reform strategy in line with the advisory committee's report and the recently released white paper on the country's economic situation.

Last month, they protested for an immediate cancellation of a gazette notification that bifurcated the organisation into two divisions.

A government statement said, "Officials and employees should return to work immediately and refrain from illegal and destructive activities against national interests. Otherwise, the government will be forced to take strict actions to protect the people and the economy of the country.” The warning came shortly after the declaration, making jobs under NBR, which include customs houses and stations, internal container depots and bond commissionerates, an essential service.

The shutdown forced the closure of all customs, VAT, and income tax services across the country, except international passenger service.

According to various newspaper reports, the protests halted import and export operations, particularly in major hubs such as the Chattogram Customs House. The protesting officials only spared international passenger service.

The warning issued by Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus's office said some officials and staff were trying to block revenue reform for the last two months, causing hardship under the guise of protest.

Bangladesh laws allow the government to declare any service “essential”. In some jurisdictions, strikes in essential services may be restricted or regulated to ensure the continued provision of vital services during labour disputes. PTI AR GSP GSP