A modern tax building in Khulna was inaugurated on Thursday, with National Parliament Whip and Khulna-3 lawmaker Rokibul Islam Bakul calling for a more transparent and citizen-friendly tax administration.
Addressing the inaugural ceremony as chief guest, Bakul emphasised that tax officials must act as “friends of the public, not a source of fear,” underscoring the need to restore public confidence in the taxation system.
The event was chaired by Abdur Rahman Khan, Secretary of the Internal Resources Division and Chairman of the National Board of Revenue (NBR).
Among the other dignitaries were Khulna City Corporation Administrator Nazrul Islam Manju, Zila Parishad Administrator SM Monirul Hasan Bappi, NBR Member (Tax Policy) Barrister Mutasim Billah Faruqui and Member (Tax Administration and Human Resource Management) Ahsan Habib. Khulna Tax Commissioner Shrabani Chakma delivered the welcome address.
Bakul highlighted the pivotal role of taxpayers in national development, noting that revenue collection underpins investment in infrastructure, education, healthcare and energy sectors. He called for simplifying procedures, ensuring transparency and curbing tax evasion to strengthen the system.
He also expressed concern over public reluctance to obtain Taxpayer Identification Numbers (TIN), attributing it to fears of harassment and negative experiences with some officials. Such practices, he said, hinder the expansion of the tax base and are detrimental to the economy.
Raising the issue of inequality in enforcement, Bakul alleged that large traders often evade taxes while small and medium enterprises face disproportionate pressure. He urged authorities to ensure fairness and accountability in tax administration.
Referring to Khulna’s economic condition, he said the region’s industrial base, particularly the fisheries sector, is under threat.
He pledged efforts to revitalise the local economy through the development of both small-scale and large industries.
According to officials, the 10-storey building was constructed by the Public Works Department at a cost of Tk 65.54 crore between July 2019 and December 2025. Spanning over 130,000 square feet, it houses tax zones, appellate offices, survey units and the Khulna bench of the tax appellate tribunal.
Equipped with modern facilities, including lifts, generator, substation, central air-conditioning, fire safety equipments and digital service centres, the new building is expected to enhance efficiency and service delivery in the region’s tax administration.
SMS/AM
