Dhaka, June 29 (V7N) — The government has declared all jobs at customs houses, inland container depots (ICDs), bond commissionerates, and customs stations under the National Board of Revenue (NBR) as essential services. The decision aims to ensure uninterrupted trade, commerce, and revenue collection amid ongoing protests by NBR officials and employees.

The Press Wing of the Chief Advisor issued a statement on Sunday confirming the move. The statement highlighted that continued disruptions over the past two months have severely hampered revenue collection, trade, and import-export activities, causing extreme hardship to the economy.

“The country’s revenue collection system is already burdened by weaknesses, irregularities, and corruption. The illegal and immoral work stoppage by some NBR officials and employees has worsened the situation at a critical time for the economy,” the statement said.

It noted that despite repeated calls for dialogue and reassurances that the government would consider legitimate demands, the striking employees have refused to cooperate. Instead, the so-called movement has taken an inflexible and harmful stance, the government said, describing it as “planned and malicious, contrary to national interest and civil rights.”

In response, the government emphasized:

  • All NBR jobs at customs-related offices are now classified as essential services.

  • Officials and employees are expected to resume duties immediately.

  • Failure to comply will result in strict measures to protect national interests and the economy.

The statement added that the NBR is set for restructuring in consultation with all stakeholders to address deep-rooted issues in revenue administration.

“We hope officials will return to work and refrain from illegal and destructive activities. If not, the government will be compelled to act firmly to safeguard the people and the nation’s economy,” the statement concluded.

END/RH/AJ