NBR officials call for dialogue

Staff Reporter :

Revenue operations, including import and export activities, have come to a standstill due to a pen-down strike by officials protesting the dissolution of the National Board of Revenue (NBR).

The protestors claim the decision was made without adhering to the recommendations of the NBR Reform Committee.

The striking officials have announced that the protest will continue tomorrow (18 May) from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM.

Speaking at a press conference on Friday (17 May), representatives of the NBR Reform Unity Parishad urged the government to resolve the ongoing impasse through dialogue. They called on the chief adviser to intervene and issue necessary directives to facilitate a resolution.

“We are waiting for the government to come to the table and engage in discussions with us under the leadership of the chief adviser,” said Nipun Chakma, Joint Commissioner of Customs. “Our door has always been open for dialogue, and it remains open.”

Md Asaduzzaman, Joint Commissioner of Taxes, stressed the need for transparency and inclusivity in the reform process.

“We support reform, but it must be practical, reflect stakeholder input, and acknowledge the expertise and experience of NBR officers and staff,” he said.

Other speakers at the press conference included Revenue Officers Shahinul Haque Shahin and Hasnat Imam Sarker, who echoed the call for constructive engagement and respect for institutional recommendations.