Advisor Salehuddin suspects instigation by ‘AL-era beneficiary businessmen’ in NBR protests

The advisor wants to hold a discussion with a delegation from the Tax and Customs cadres on Thursday

Finance Advisor Salehuddin Ahmed suspects the protests by officers and employees of the National Board of Revenue (NBR), which has disrupted the reform process of the institution, may be instigated by certain “favoured businessmen” from the ousted Awami League government’s tenure.

Speaking after a meeting of the Advisory Council Committee on Government Purchase on Wednesday, he said although the civil servants violated the law by launching a movement and work abstention, the issue could still be resolved through dialogue.

A media statement from the finance ministry said the advisor has invited a delegation from the Tax and Customs cadres for discussions.

The meeting is scheduled for Thursday at 5pm.

In May, the interim government issued an ordinance bifurcating the NBR into two separate divisions -- Revenue Administration and Revenue Policy.

In response, NBR staff protested and launched pen-down strikes demanding the ordinance’s cancellation.

Facing the backlash, the government backtracked and announced that it would consult with NBR officers before implementing the ordinance.

Although the employees eventually resumed work, the protesters remained steadfast in demanding the resignation of the NBR chairman and declared him “unwelcome” at the office.

The chairman later returned under heightened security provided by the Army and law-enforcing agencies.

While he resumed his duties, tensions between him and the staff persisted.

In response to a question, Salehuddin said: “A negative perception surrounds the careers of NBR officials, but their prospects will not be harmed. NBR will become an independent division, which will raise their status, enrich their careers, and improve promotion opportunities.

“As for who influenced them -- I’m sure you understand the inner workings better than I do.”

He added, “What they have done -- being absent from their workplace -- this has never been done before at the NBR. This isn’t just a matter between you and me.

“It affects the country’s entire trade, commerce, and revenue operations -- including ports, land ports, and import-export activities.

“I have said that there’s no problem that cannot be resolved through discussion.”

He explained that the push for NBR reform stems from the institution’s history of irregularities, marked by a “lack of accountability and transparency”.

“In many cases, only a select group of businessmen connected to the previous government benefited, while more deserving individuals were left out.

“NBR was nowhere near ensuring equal opportunity for all.”

He suggested that certain business interests could be behind the unease, wondering why officers would suddenly be so concerned about career matters without external influence.

The advisor, however, clarified that this is just his assumption and he is not directly accusing the businessmen.

When asked if NBR officials are violating service rules by protesting, he said: “Yes, we have shown patience.

“But if one wants to remain in government service, they must abide by many rules and maintain discipline.”