Dhaka: The Cabinet today gave its final and in-principle approval to the draft Bank Resolution (Amendment) Act, 2026, alongside the draft Visa Policy, 2026, and the draft National Human Rights Commission Act, 2026, during its 16th meeting at the Secretariat, presided over by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the original Bank Resolution Ordinance, 2025, was established to address risks from capital shortfalls, liquidity crises, and insolvency, ensuring financial stability. It was first introduced as a bill in the 13th Jatiya Sangsad and examined by a parliamentary Special Committee, which recommended amendments. Consequently, a new Section 18A was included to provide a market-based resolution mechanism. However, due to non-compliance with Section 18A, the draft Bank Resolution (Amendment) Act, 2026, aims to repeal this section.
The Cabinet also approved the draft Visa Policy, 2026, aiming to streamline entry and departure processes for foreigners in Bangladesh. The policy seeks to attract foreign investment, enhance the tourism sector, and ensure national security while implementing a modern migration framework. The new policy expands visa categories from 33 to 34 and will replace all previous visa-related circulars with a comprehensive framework, jointly executed by the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Department of Immigration and Passports, and Bangladeshi missions abroad.
Additionally, the draft National Human Rights Commission Act, 2026, was approved, featuring a Commission with one Chairperson and four Commissioners, including at least one woman. The selection process will prioritize candidates from ethnic minority and disadvantaged communities. The Commission's jurisdiction will be well-defined, and it will have the authority to issue interim orders for victim safety. Moreover, a National Preventive Mechanism Unit will be established to prevent torture and enforced disappearances, aligning with the UN Convention against Torture.