The government has directed all striking officials and employees of the National Board of Revenue (NBR) to return to work without delay, warning that failure to comply will prompt strict measures to protect the nation’s economy and citizens.
In a statement issued amid a prolonged shutdown by NBR staff protesting restructuring plans, the government expressed deep concern over the disruption caused to trade, imports, exports, and overall revenue collection. Officials described the ongoing two-month movement as “unprecedented, unjust, and unethical,” accusing organizers of creating extreme public suffering.
“Bangladesh’s biggest constraint in financing its development budget is its weak revenue collection system, plagued by inefficiency, irregularities, and corruption. As part of broader reforms, the interim government has decided to restructure the NBR based on consultations with stakeholders,” the statement said.
However, it noted that instead of engaging in dialogue, sections of NBR officials and employees have escalated their agitation, severely disrupting critical revenue operations especially in the last two months of the fiscal year. “This so-called movement is not only anti-reform but appears to be deliberate and malicious, running contrary to national interests and citizens’ rights,” the government asserted.
Despite open invitations for dialogue and assurances that staff demands would be reviewed, the protesters have maintained a rigid stance, causing continued harm to the country’s economy, the statement added.
Citing the urgent need to safeguard national interests, the government has decided to declare all categories of jobs under customs houses, ICDs, bond commissionerates, and customs stations as essential services. This designation paves the way for legal measures against disruptions.
The government concluded by reiterating its call for striking NBR staff to resume duties immediately, warning that failure to comply would compel authorities to act decisively to ensure uninterrupted revenue collection and economic stability.
