Members of the NBR (National Board of Revenue) Reform Committee are struggling to deal with a dilemma: whether their proposals would be implemented by the interim government, or remain unheeded and just gather dust, like the White Paper on the Economy produced by a committee led by Dr Debapriya Bhattacharya, or the work of the team tasked with "Re-strategising the economy and mobilising resources for equitable and sustainable development". Talking to UNB, two members of the Advisory Committee on NBR Reform this week expressed concerns over the eventual implementation of their proposals. “It is not about submitting our proposals, there should be a process in place to implement those proposals,” one of the committee members told UNB, on being granted anonymity to discuss potentially sensitive matters. Another member of the Committee questioned the political commitment, authority and capability of the interim government when it comes to implementing the proposals they put forward. “We will write down the bitter truth, whether the interim government accepts those or not,” he said. Govt is working to establish fair, business-friendly tax structure: NBR Chairman The reform committee members said that ultimately, the people of the country would make their own judgments on the basis of an array of factors, including the political commitment of the interim government. The Reform committee, formed on October 9, 2024, comprises two former NBR chairmen—Muhammad Abdul Mazid and Dr. Nasiruddin Ahmed—and three former members: M Delowar Hossain, Farid Uddin, and Aminur Rahman. It recently submitted its first draft proposal, which was on the separation of revenue collection and policy formulation within NBR. The committee in its first report highlighted that Bangladesh’s current tax policy deviates significantly from international best practices, which typically feature low rates, minimal exemptions, a broad base, progressive income tax structures, and value-based taxation. These deviations are seen as impediments to investment, revenue growth, and the establishment of economic and social justice. “NBR itself does not like reform, reform means reducing power,” one member of the NBR reform committee told UNB. A central recommendation of the report is to address the inefficiencies and conflict of interest arising from the dual role of the Secretary of the Internal Resources Division (IRD) and the NBR Chairman - currently both positions are held by the same individual. The next draft proposal of the taskforce, which will be on automation, is likely to be submitted in the next month, according to a Committee member. The 12-member taskforce, titled "Re-strategising the economy and mobilising resources for equitable and sustainable development", led by former director general of Bangladesh Institute of Development Studies (BIDS) Dr KAS Murshid. Better governance in focus for boosting revenue in next budget: NBR Chairman The committee submitted its report to the interim government on January 30, but recently the head of the taskforce expressed his frustration saying that some advisers did not even open the report once to read it. On the other hand, members of the committee responsible for drafting the White Paper on the state of Bangladesh’s economy have recently voiced their dissatisfaction regarding the lack of governmental action following the submission of their comprehensive report. The 12-member committee, led by Dr. Debapriya Bhattacharya, a distinguished fellow at the Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD), was established in August 2024 to assess and document the nation’s economic challenges. The White Paper unveiled significant irregularities across four major sectors, notably energy and physical infrastructure. The report highlighted discrepancies in data accuracy, cost assessments, and information transparency. Furthermore, it exposed a concerning nexus among politicians, bureaucrats, business figures, and certain civil society members, suggesting a systemic culture of financial misconduct and autocratic governance. Despite the gravity of these findings, committee members have expressed frustration over the government’s inaction. Their concerns principally include: • Lack of Acknowledgment: The government has not formally recognized the report’s findings, nor has it initiated public discussions or debates based on its content. • Absence of Policy Response: There has been no indication of policy reforms or corrective measures addressing the issues highlighted in the report. NBR launches Spot Assessment programme to increase tax net • Transparency Concerns: The committee’s call for increased transparency and accountability appears to have been overlooked, undermining efforts to combat systemic corruption.

The National Consensus Commission opened its dialogues with political parties, starting with the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) on Thursday, aiming to build a national consensus on the reform initiatives undertaken by the interim government. The meeting with the LDP began with Vice Chairman of the consensus commission Prof Ali Riaz in the chair at the LD Hall of the parliament complex at 3:00 pm. An eight-member delegation, led by LDP President Col (retd) Oli Ahmed, is in the meeting. The commission will also sit with other political parties in phases. A total of 16 political parties have so far submitted their opinions. The 16 parties are Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), Khelafat Majlish, Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam Bangladesh, Zaker Party, Bhasani Onusari Parishad, Nationalist Democratic Movement (NDM), Amjanatar Dal, Rashtra Sanskar Andolon, Bangladesh Jatiya Samajtantrik Dal-Bangladesh Jasad, Bangladesh Labour Party, Bangladesh Khelafat Majlish, Amar Bangladesh Party (AB Party), Nagorik Oikya, Jatiya Ganofront, Jatiya Samajtantrik Dal and Bangladesh Jamaat-e Islami. Consensus Commission to hold meetings with 4 political parties before Eid: Ali Riaz Besides, 14 political parties sought a few more days to place their complete opinions. The Consensus Commission is again contacting the remaining nine parties. The commission, spearheaded by Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus, started its work on February 15, 2025. The commission identified the crucial recommendations made in the reports of five reform commissions – the constitution reform commission, the public administration reform commission, the electoral system reform commission, the judiciary reform commission and the ACC reform commission – to seek opinions from the political parties. Reach a consensus to expedite reforms, hold election: AB Party Later, the commission sent a set of recommendations in a spreadsheet format to 38 political parties asking them to send their specific opinions on the important reform recommendations by March 13.

The National Consensus Commission is set to begin its dialogues with political parties, starting with the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) on Thursday, aiming to build a national consensus on the reform initiatives undertaken by the interim government. The meeting with the LDP is scheduled for 3:00 pm on Thursday, according to a press release. The commission will later announce the schedule for talks with other political parties in phases. Meanwhile, two more political parties – Jatiya Ganofront and Jatiya Samajtantrik Dal (JSD) – submitted their views on the reform recommendations to the National Consensus Commission on Tuesday. With the two parties, a total of 15 political parties have so far submitted their opinions, but major political parties, including BNP and Jamaat, are yet to send theirs. Political parties, National Consensus Commission to set Bangladesh's vision: Press Secretary The 15 parties are Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), Khelafat Majlish, Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam Bangladesh, Zaker Party, Bhasani Onusari Parishad, Nationalist Democratic Movement (NDM), Amjanatar Dal, Rashtra Sanskar Andolon, Bangladesh Jatiya Samajtantrik Dal-Bangladesh Jasad, Bangladesh Labour Party, Bangladesh Khelafat Majlish, Amar Bangladesh Party (AB Party), Nagorik Oikya, Jatiya Ganofront and Jatiya Samajtantrik Dal (JSD). Besides, 14 more political parties sought a few more days to place their complete opinions. The Consensus Commission is again contacting the remaining nine parties. The commission, spearheaded by Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus, started its work on February 15, 2025. The commission identified the crucial recommendations made in the reports of five reform commissions – the constitution reform commission, the public administration reform commission, the electoral system reform commission, the judiciary reform commission and the ACC reform commission – to seek opinions from the political parties. BNP, Jamaat, others start meeting with National Consensus Commission Later, the commission sent a set of recommendations in a spreadsheet format to 38 political parties asking them to send their specific opinions on the important reform recommendations by March 13

Prof Chowdhury R Abrar was sworn in as adviser of the interim government on Wednesday morning. President Mohammed Shahbuddin administered the oath at Bangabhahan around 11am. Chief Adviser Yunus, along with other members of the advisory council were also present, among others. On Tuesday, Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam said CR Abrar would take the oath on Wednesday. Prof Abrar completed his studies at the University of Dhaka, the University of Sussex, and Griffith University in Australia. Prof CR Abrar takes oath as adviser His works have been featured in volumes published by Westview Press, Blackwell, Earthscan, and Macmillan India. He is currently a faculty member in the Department of International Relations at the University of Dhaka. Dr. Chowdhury R. Abrar studied at the University of Dhaka, the University of Sussex, and Griffith University in Australia. His articles have been featured in volumes published by Westview Press, Blackwell, Earthscan, and Macmillan India.

Mahfuj Alam has been appointed adviser to the Information and Broadcasting Ministry. The Cabinet Division issued a notification in this regard on Wednesday. Information Adviser Nahid Islam finally quits Chief Adviser Professor Dr Muhammad Yunus appointed him the Information Adviser a day after Nahid Islam stepped down from the position. Mafuj Alam took the oath of office as an adviser on November 10 last year but had not held a specific portfolio. President accepts Nahid’s resignation letter Earlier, he was appointed as the Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser on August 28, just 20 days after the formation of the interim government. Mafuj Alam is a graduate of the Law Department of  Dhaka University.

Interim government Adviser Mahfuj Alam has warned against mob activities, vowing to take tougher action against those attempting to disrupt the law-and-order situation, and such actions would be dealt with firmly from now on. “If you support the uprising, stop mob acts. And if you engage in mob activities, you will be treated as devil,” Mahfuj posted on his verified Facebook page on Monday. AL won’t be allowed to contest elections: Mahfuj Alam No further requests for compliance would be made following the recent incidents, Mahfuj said, “Your duty is not to take the law into your own hands. From now on, we will deal with so-called movements and mob displays with an iron hand. If there is any effort to render the state ineffective or prove it a failure, not an inch of concession will be given.” He also talked about religious groups, reminding them of the peace they had enjoyed for over a decade. “After one and a half decades, you have had the opportunity to practise your religion and culture in peace. Your recklessness or extremism is about to put that peace at risk,” he said. All-party meeting Thursday to finalise ‘July Declaration’ with consensus: Mahfuj Urging restraint, Mahfuj reiterated a final appeal, “Refrain from oppression, or oppression upon you inevitable. ‘Do not oppress, and do not be oppressed’,” he shared a verse from the Holy Quran. “This is our last request,” he asserted. No attackers of shrines, cultural events to be spared: Adviser Mahfuj

Acts of vandalism and arson in various institutions and establishments across the country will be firmly resisted, said the interim government. "The interim government is observing with deep concern that certain individuals and groups are attempting vandalism and arson in various institutions and establishments across the country. The government will firmly resist such activities," the government said in a statement issued on Thursday night. Vandalism at Dhanmondi-32 residence should strongly be condemned: India The government is prepared to ensure the security of citizens and their property. The statement also said that if any attempt is made to destabilise the country through provocative actions, law enforcement agencies will take immediate and strict measures against the responsible individuals and groups and bring the culprits to justice. Earlier on Thursday, India said the act of vandalism at the historic residence of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman should be "strongly condemned.” Actress Sohana Saba taken into DB custody for questioning "It is regrettable that the historic residence of Sheikh Mujibur Rehman, a symbol of the heroic resistance of the people of Bangladesh against the forces of occupation and oppression, was destroyed on February 5," said Spokesperson at the Indian Ministry of Foreign Affairs Randhir Jaiswal. All those who value the freedom struggle that nurtured Bangla identity and pride are aware of the importance of this residence for the national consciousness of Bangladesh, he said. Hasina’s “provocative remarks" fueled Dhanmondi-32 vandalism: Govt

The interim government on Wednesday said Bangladesh Awami League would not be allowed to hold any protest programmes until its leadership is brought to justice and held accountable. “Many, including Awami League’s top leadership, are involved in entire July killings. Such a big killing has happened in Bangladesh’s history before our eyes. They must face the trial first. Our position is very clear,” Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam told reporters at a media briefing at the Foreign Service Academy. Chief Adviser’s Deputy Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad Majumder also spoke at the briefing. Govt won’t let AL to hold protests unless it apologises: Press Secretary Alam referred to page number 17 of the Human Rights Watch’s (HRW) report on the July Uprising, saying officers had told them that Sheikh Hasina "directly ordered enforced disappearances and killings." Responding to a question, he said even those from the Awami League who are clean or who are not involved in the killings are not seen to be remorseful or have not apologised. No one from the Awami League has come and said that they do not accept Hasina's leadership or that they want clean leadership, he added. Alam said those responsible for the killings have no regret, rather they are telling more lies. “'Until the Awami League apologises, until their top leadership is brought to justice, until they are held accountable, they will not be allowed to hold any protest programme.” Since assuming office in early August, the interim government has upheld the principles of freedom of assembly and organisation, ensuring that no lawful protest has been banned or restricted, he said in a Facebook post from his verified account. Bangladesh's 'tone' at BGB-BSF conference to be different: Home Adviser Highlighting this commitment, a recent report indicated that at least 136 protests have taken place in Dhaka over the past five and a half months, some of which have led to significant traffic congestion, he said, adding that the interim government has refrained from imposing any bans on these demonstrations. In his Facebook comment, Alam posed a question, “Will any country in the world allow murderers and corrupt figures to return to power?” He said no country allows a return to normal activities without accountability and the people of Bangladesh will give a strong response to any protest or gathering by these “murderers”. “The interim government represents the people of Bangladesh. We will not allow any attempt to push the country towards violence. If anyone dares to hold illegal protests under the banner of Awami League, he/she will have to face the law,” Alam said.

Planning and Education Adviser Dr. Wahiduddin Mahmud has said the interim government is committed to making the groundwork for fostering an "inclusive and pluralistic democracy"; and creating an environment for "free, fair and participatory" elections in line with the aspirations of the country’s people. He made the remarks while speaking as the chief guest at a reception on Saturday evening hosted by the High Commission of India in Dhaka, celebrating the 76th Republic Day of India. The Adviser said over the years, the two countries collaborated in a wide range of areas, and Bangladesh is committed to strengthening the relationship based on mutual respect and understanding of each other’s perspectives, concerns and priorities Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Pranay Verma also spoke at the reception. Political leaders, including emeritus president of the Gono Forum Dr Kamal Hossain, Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhory, Jatiya Party leaders including its Chairman GM Quader, Advisers including Dr Asif Nazrul, Foreign Secretary Md Jashim Uddin, Ambassadors and High Commissioners, businesses leaders, editors, civil society members and celebrities were present. The Planning Adviser said they are committed to taking forward the relationship to a people-centric approach where the welfare of the people of both countries will be ensured. "I am confident that our relationship will continue to strengthen based on goodwill, mutual trust and respect," he said. Read: Rizvi compares call for reforms before elections to AL putting development before democracy Referring to the nation anthems of the two countries at the beginning of the two countries, Adviser Wahiduddin said this is unique in the world that both national anthems were written by the same poet Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore which defines the relations. The Adviser, who has been a teacher and researcher in his entire life, said 76 reminds him of his own age. "I am as old as Independent India." He said Bangladesh-India relationship is multifaceted and based on our shared history, geographical proximity, cultural affinity and people-to-people connections. Adviser Wahiduddin said the people of Bangladesh fondly remember the crucial role played by the people and government of India during Bangladesh's great War of Liberation in 1971. He mentioned that Bangladesh aims to foster strong relations with its neighbouring countries, including India, to promote shared prosperity and sustainable development. "Bangladesh expects this relations will be based on fairness and equity," he said, noting that India is the closest neighbour of Bangladesh. Read more: BNP leader Altaf calls for institutional restructuring to ensure fair elections On the issue of people-centric relations, Adviser Wahiduddin shared some of his personal remarks and said some of his closest friends are Indian academics - either living in India or abroad. He said they collaborate and exchange ideas through many research networks and platforms. "I can say with confidence that these close ties, many of us have in academia in India and Bangladesh, will continue to contribute to the mutual goodwill and understanding between our two countries," said the Adviser. Wahiduddin extended the warmest greetings to the government and people of India. "May Bangladesh-India relations live forever." Indian President Droupadi Murmu is leading the nation in celebrating the 76th Republic Day from Kartavya Path in New Delhi on January 26, 2025. With a special focus on 75 years of enactment of the Constitution and Jan Bhagidari, the celebrations this year are a unique blend of India’s rich cultural diversity, unity, equality, development and military prowess. President of the Republic of Indonesia Prabowo Subianto is the chief guest. Around 10,000 Special Guests have been invited to witness the parade, in line with the Indian Government’s objective to increase ‘Jan Bhagidari’ in events of national importance. Read more: National election likely by year end or early 2026: EC Masud These special guests from different walks of life are the architects of ‘Swarnim Bharat’. They include best performers in various fields and those who have made the best use of the schemes of the government.

The news published on India.com is "false and part of an Indian-orchestrated propaganda campaign" against Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus, his family members and the interim government of Bangladesh, said Chief Adviser's press wing on Friday. Dr Yunus did not donate any money to the Hillary Clinton Foundation as claimed in the post, said its fact-checking wing. CA's Press Wing quashes rumours of ISI chief visiting Dhaka His friendship with the Clintons has not benefited his daughter, Monica Yunus, and, contrary to the claim, she never held any position in Joe Biden's administration, said the CA's press wing. The report of Prof Yunus receiving millions of dollars in loans while Hillary Clinton served as US Secretary of States is also false, it said in a Facebook post. Nasimul Ghani not a Hizb ut-Tahrir member, says CA's Press Wing Dr Yunus also played no role in the World Bank’s decision to scrap any loan deal for the Padma Bridge project, according to the CA's press wing.