Khulna: The Khulna Tax Tribunal held a public hearing on Thursday, encouraging taxpayers to prepare their income tax returns with the assistance of experienced lawyers to avoid legal issues under the Income Tax Act 2023. Tribunal members Abul Bashar Akon and Mohammad Zakir Hossain led the session, addressing taxpayers' questions and offering guidance.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the hearing was attended by Khulna's Appeal Commissioner Golam Sarwar Hossain, Tax Commissioner Sheikh Md. Moniruzzaman, senior lawyers such as M. Shahnawaz Ali, Mohammad Mojibur Rahman, and M. Harun-or-Rashid, along with members of the Income Tax Lawyers' Association, litigants, and other stakeholders.
During the hearing, the tribunal members cautioned taxpayers against using inexperienced computer shops for filing returns. They stressed that filing a 'zero return' would leave the taxpayer fully liable, as the Act does not recognize any provision for such filings.
Advocate Khan Moniruzzaman, president of the Income Tax Lawyers' Association, discussed various challenges faced by taxpayers. Judicial representatives assured attendees that every effort would be made to prevent taxpayer harassment.
Participants also appealed for the prompt resolution of audit, appeal, and tribunal cases. The judges expressed hope that similar public hearings would be held monthly to address ongoing taxpayer concerns.