Over 200 protesters apologise to NBR chairman

Over 200 former protesters on Tuesday morning officially asked for forgiveness from NBR Chairman Abdur Rahman Khan, a week after they ended their movement demanding his ouster due to tough government measures.

In response, Abdur Rahman said he “forgives” the protesters, but added that the government would decide on the measures to be taken over the losses inflicted on the national economy during the protests.

Since 12 May, a section of NBR officials waged a work boycott movement for nearly two months, in protest against the government’s reform measures aimed at curbing corruption within the tax collection agency.

At one point, the protesters, united under the banner of “NBR Reform Unity Council”, started demanding the “unconditional removal” of NBR chairman, alleging he was an “ally” of the ousted corrupt Awami League government.

Towards the end of June, they warned of expanding the movement to street demonstrations. They also halted services related to trade and international travel, seriously threatening the country's economic activities.

On 29 June, the government decided to go tough against the protesters. The government declared NBR operations as essential services and warned the protesters would face penalties if they did not resume services.

On the same day, the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) launched probes against six NBR officials, including those leading the protests. Sensing growing danger, the NBR Reform Unity Council called off protests in the very night.

The government welcomed the protest withdrawal, but noted that the ACC investigations would continue independently.

Over the past week, the ACC announced corruption probes against more NBR officials, bringing the total count of suspects to 16, many of whom were involved in the two-month movement.

On Monday, Abdur Rahman Khan said the NBR officials, who incurred losses through their protests, need not fear "acts of vengeance". However, those committing gross violations will be treated differently, he noted.