Jamaat Criticizes FY2026–27 Budget, Holds Protest Marches in Dhaka
Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami has criticized the proposed national budget for the 2026–27 fiscal year, calling it "anti-people" and claiming it places an additional burden on ordinary citizens. To demonstrate its opposition, the party organized separate protest marches in Dhaka on June 11.
The Dhaka North unit began its procession from in front of Uttar Badda Kamil Madrasa, while the Dhaka South unit held its march from the north gate of Baitul Mukarram National Mosque. Party members and supporters participated in the demonstrations, urging the government to reconsider key elements of the proposed budget.
Speaking at a rally following the march, Jamaat Assistant Secretary General Hamidur Rahman Azad said the proposed budget does not meet public expectations. He argued that it largely continues previous fiscal policies instead of introducing reforms that would provide greater relief to citizens.
Azad alleged that the budget favors wealthier groups while increasing tax pressure on middle- and lower-income people. He also questioned the government's revenue targets, saying the projected collections may be difficult to achieve under current economic conditions.
He criticized the government's reliance on the National Board of Revenue (NBR) for revenue collection, arguing that excessive dependence on taxation could create additional pressure on taxpayers and businesses.
According to Azad, a significant share of the proposed budget is allocated to operational expenditure rather than development activities. He warned that this spending pattern could reduce investment in development projects while contributing to inflationary pressure.
Referring to recent increases in gas and fuel prices, Azad said higher energy costs could further raise the cost of living for ordinary citizens. He also questioned whether the government's employment generation targets are realistic.
The Jamaat leader said the party had submitted an alternative budget proposal that recommended reducing total expenditure by approximately Tk 1 lakh crore. The proposal also called for raising the tax-free income threshold and revising parts of the fiscal framework to provide greater relief for taxpayers.
He added that the party would continue peaceful political programmes and public demonstrations while calling for greater transparency, accountability, and a budget that better addresses the needs of the people.
The proposed FY2026–27 national budget continues to generate debate among political parties, economists, business groups, and civil society as discussions continue over its potential impact on Bangladesh's economy and citizens.
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Source: Independently rewritten and summarized from reporting by The Daily Star.
Disclaimer: This article is an original rewrite created for informational purposes and