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NBR Reform Unity Council denies deal, calls two-day strike
The NBR Reform Unity Council on Saturday rejected claims of any compromise with the Office of the Finance Adviser regarding ongoing revenue sector reforms. It clarified that no agreement was reached during the meeting held on Thursday, May 22.
In a statement, the council criticised a subsequent press release that suggested the National Board of Revenue (NBR) would not be abolished until the issuance of an ordinance. The council stated that this created “unnecessary confusion,” especially among revenue officials and the public.
Referring to Section 1(2) of the promulgated ordinance, the council argued that the NBR should be considered abolished until a government gazette is officially issued to implement it.
The statement reiterated four key demands:
Immediate repeal of the ordinance.
Removal of NBR Chairman Md Abdur Rahman Khan.
Public disclosure of the consultative proposal on revenue reform.
Inclusive discussion involving all stakeholders, relevant authorities, civil society, and empowered representatives.
“We are calling for a proper and sustainable revenue system,” the council said, asserting that their demands are logical and in the national interest. They emphasised that the reform they seek aligns with internationally recognised best practices.
The council also warned that reforms must not serve the interests of any specific group under the guise of national security. “True reform should reflect national development priorities and ensure an effective, transparent, and corruption-free revenue system,” the statement read.
They criticised the government’s silence on their demands and questioned, “Who is opposing us, and under whose influence?”
As no clear response has been received, the Unity Council announced it will proceed with its previously declared programme of action.
A full-day strike will be observed on Sunday, May 25, from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, at all Income Tax, Customs, and VAT offices, excluding Customs House and LC operations. Export and international services will remain exempt.
A second full-day strike will be held on Monday, May 26, across all offices, excluding international services under the International Member.
All tax, VAT, and customs officers and employees in Dhaka have been asked to gather in front of the NBR headquarters at 9:00 am on both days.
The council also noted a strong presence of law enforcement—including police, BGB, and RAB—at the NBR building on Saturday morning, which raised concern among members. “This raises questions in our minds,” the statement concluded.