Dhaka: The Cabinet has given in-principle approval to a draft bill amending the Members of Parliament (Remuneration and Allowances) Act of 2026, which eliminates the duty-free vehicle facility for MPs in response to the current economic situation. The decision was made during the fifth Cabinet meeting at the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban, chaired by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the MPs currently benefit from importing duty-free vehicles under the Members of Parliament (Remuneration and Allowances) Order, 1973. The newly approved draft aims to remove this provision, aligning with the Prime Minister’s strategic approach to address economic challenges.
In addition to the vehicle facility amendment, the Cabinet has also approved a policy to extend the jurisdiction of the Dhaka North City Corporation, Dhaka Metropolitan Police, and Dhaka WASA to cover the Purbachal New Town project area. This change involves incorporating sections of Rupganj in Narayanganj and Kaliganj in Gazipur into Dhaka district. The objective is to enhance civic services like waste management, road maintenance, and utility services, along with law enforcement in the area.
The Cabinet further agreed to shift the date of National Tea Day from June 4 to May 21, to align with the International Tea Day observed globally by the United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organization since 2020. This change reflects the practices of many tea-producing nations.
Additionally, amendments were approved to remove the age restriction for appointing the chairman and commissioners of the Bangladesh Securities and Exchange Commission (BSEC). The existing age limit of 65 was identified as a constraint in sourcing experienced professionals. The amendment is intended to provide flexibility in selecting qualified candidates.
A similar amendment was passed for the Insurance Development and Regulatory Authority, lifting the age cap of 67 for its chairman and members. Officials noted that many Asian countries do not impose such age limitations on regulators, and this adjustment aims to attract skilled candidates.
The meeting considered five agenda items in total and granted approval to all.