Finance Adviser Dr Salehuddin Ahmed has called for an end to the harassment citizens face when accessing government services.
Speaking at the launch of the Tax Representative Management System (TRMS) software at the National Board of Revenue (NBR) headquarters in Agargaon, Dhaka, on Sunday, he stressed the need for efficiency and sincerity in service delivery.
“Delivering hassle-free services requires both goodwill and commitment. If those in charge are not proactive, even future governments will struggle to fix these issues in time,” said Dr Salehuddin.
He highlighted that the public often faces unnecessary difficulties when dealing with government offices, and these issues must be resolved for smoother service delivery.
Dr Salehuddin also praised the newly launched software, calling it a milestone in economic reform. “It will significantly improve the transparency, efficiency, and accessibility of the country’s tax collection system,” he added.
He further emphasized the importance of reducing red tape, stating, “In Bangladesh, often nonsensical matters receive more media attention than meaningful, constructive initiatives. Today’s software launch is a genuinely significant step forward for our economy. Not only will it simplify the tax collection process, but it will also reduce suffering for ordinary citizens.”
Dr Salehuddin praised the NBR Chairman and the team for their efforts in developing the software locally, stating, “We have become too dependent on foreign developers. Creating this software with local expertise is a remarkable achievement in itself.”
The Finance Adviser also urged tax lawyers to cooperate in ensuring smooth service delivery, adding, “If you offer professional and efficient services, taxpayers will happily pay your fees. It’s possible to avoid unethical practices like bribery if everyone performs their role with integrity.”
Dr Salehuddin shared a personal example of customer service, saying, “Once, while returning a train ticket in Paris, I was amazed at how efficient and courteous the customer service was. That’s the kind of service I hope we can build in Bangladesh.”
He concluded with optimism about the software’s impact, saying, “We want people to regain trust in public services. This initiative may very well mark the beginning of that renewed confidence.”
According to NBR, the newly launched app will allow users to file tax returns, determine taxes, submit appeals, and claim refunds online, reducing the long-standing hassle in tax procedures.
