Armed Forces Deployed at NBR Headquarters as Tensions Escalate

Staff Correspondent

Following the nationwide deployment of army forces to strengthen security, armed forces and police have now been stationed in front of the National Board of Revenue (NBR) headquarters.

Eyewitnesses reported seeing security personnel positioned outside the NBR building since Saturday morning, May 24. NBR officials stated, “We have learned that law enforcement has been deployed on the instructions of the Home Affairs Advisor.”

It has been confirmed that the NBR Chairman is expected to arrive at the office today. In accordance with government directives, all government, semi-government offices, banks, and educational institutions remain open. Army and police deployment aims to prevent any untoward incidents.

Meanwhile, the army has intensified security across various parts of the country. Key government institutions and installations have been placed under heightened security measures, reportedly in response to recent political and social unrest.

An army source stated that troops have been deployed to critical areas, with increased patrolling to ensure public safety and protect government assets.

Earlier, on Wednesday, the NBR Reform Unity Council announced new protest programs, including non-cooperation with the NBR Chairman. As per their declaration, officers gathered in front of the NBR building holding placards on Saturday morning.

According to the organization’s statement, sit-in protests were held at NBR offices nationwide, including in the capital, on Thursday. However, export and international passenger services were exempted from the protest.

A full-day work abstention will be observed on May 24-25 at all tax, customs, and VAT offices, except customs houses and LC stations. Export and international passenger services will remain unaffected.

From May 26, the organization has called for a complete work stoppage at all tax, customs, and VAT offices, excluding international passenger services. On Wednesday, the group added a new demand for the immediate removal of NBR Chairman Md. Abdur Rahman.

The organization’s three main demands are:
1. Immediate cancellation of the proposed ordinance
2. Publication of the advisory committee’s recommendations on revenue reform on the website
3. Implementation of a sustainable revenue reform based on stakeholder consultations, including civil society, business organizations, and political leadership

Meanwhile, the formation of an ad-hoc committee by the NBR Reform Unity Council, comprising officials from customs, VAT, and tax departments, is reportedly in its final stages.