BB to launch Tk25cr special fund for July Uprising victims

Bangladesh Bank (BB) has announced plans to establish a Tk25 crore special fund to support the families of those killed and to provide medical treatment for those injured during the July 2024 mass uprising.

The decision was taken at a meeting held at the central bank on Monday, according to officials familiar with the matter.

Under this initiative, Bangladesh Bank will contribute Tk14 crore from its own resources. Additionally, 11 selected banks have agreed to each contribute Tk1 crore, bringing the total to Tk25 crore.

Sources said the move follows a meeting chaired by Bangladesh Bank Governor Ahsan H Mansur with the managing directors of all commercial banks. Before the broader discussion, the governor met separately with the heads of the 11 banks that have shown strong performance on key indicators, requesting their support for the fund. The banks agreed in principle to the contribution.

The participating banks will now seek approval from their respective boards before transferring the pledged amounts to the central bank. The fund is expected to provide immediate assistance to the affected families and help cover medical expenses for the injured.