Khulna: National Parliament Whip Rakibul Islam Bakul has emphasized the need for tax officials to be approachable and not a source of fear. He highlighted the importance of taxpayers in the national economy and urged for a fundamental change in the behavior of tax officials during the inauguration of a newly constructed modern tax building in the city.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Bakul, who also serves as the lawmaker for Khulna-3 constituency, officially opened the facility by unveiling its plaque amid a colorful program. The event was presided over by Internal Resources Division Secretary and National Board of Revenue (NBR) Chairman Abdur Rahman Khan. Special guests included Khulna City Corporation (KCC) Administrator Nazrul Islam Manju, Zila Parishad Chairman S M Monirul Hasan Bappi, NBR Member (Tax Policy) Barrister Mutasim Billah Faruqi, and Member (Tax Administration and HRM) Ahsan Habib. Khulna Tax Commissioner Shraboni Chakma delivered the welcome address.
Bakul underscored the income tax system’s role as a key driving force for development, noting that a significant portion of funding for infrastructure and services comes from taxes. He stressed the need to prevent tax evasion, simplify rules, and ensure transparency to enhance the system’s effectiveness. He expressed concern about the fear some people have regarding obtaining a TIN certificate, which stems from potential harassment by officials.
He pointed out that over-enthusiasm and dishonesty among officials discourage the creation of new taxpayers, which harms the economy. He criticized the disparity where large businessmen evade taxes while small and medium businessmen face undue pressure. He urged for these disparities to be eliminated and called for tax officers to be “friends of the people.”
Bakul also suggested raising awareness through campaigns, explaining how tax money is utilized, and rewarding compliant taxpayers. He highlighted concerns about Khulna’s economy, noting the decline of many industries, especially fisheries. He pledged to revive the region’s economy by promoting both cottage industries and large-scale industrial establishments.
The tax building project, completed at a cost of Tk 65.54 crore, began on July 1, 2019, and concluded on December 31, 2025. The 10-storey building spans a total floor area of 130,722 square feet and includes offices for various tax departments, parking facilities, a commercial bank branch, an e-return and information service center, a daycare facility, and meeting rooms.
The project also boasts modern amenities such as lifts, a generator, a substation, an air conditioning system, fire safety measures, and more. The newly inaugurated building is expected to make tax administration in the Khulna region more dynamic, modern, and taxpayer-friendly.