The Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD) Executive Director, Dr Fahmida Khatun, briefs the media on the proposed national budget for FY2025–26 on Tuesday (June 3).
The Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD) has stated that the provision allowing the legalisation of black money in the proposed national budget directly contradicts the spirit of the July Movement.

In a media briefing on Tuesday (June 3) regarding the proposed national budget for FY2025–26, CPD Executive Director Dr Fahmida Khatun said that if this provision remains, it will become nearly impossible for middle- and lower-income groups to purchase plots or flats — leading to increased social inequality.

She said, “The July Movement was for a society free from inequality. The budget aims to build an equitable society, and this proposal completely contradicts that vision.”

Fahmida noted that the budget includes a provision to legalise undisclosed income. “If someone wants to buy a building or an apartment, they can declare their undisclosed income and legalise it by paying a special tax at a higher rate. But we have always said that the opportunity to legalise black money should be completely abolished. It is not morally justifiable, and we do not support it,” she added.

She further warned that such a measure would discourage honest taxpayers. “It is an attack on their integrity. We propose that this provision be withdrawn. It is a tool for creating inequality.”

Citing an example, Dr Fahmida said, “Prices in the housing sector are already very high, and one reason is the influx of undisclosed income. When such money enters the sector, it drives up prices. As a result, it becomes almost impossible for those earning legally to afford an apartment — leading to greater social inequality.”

She reiterated, “The July Movement was for a society free from discrimination. The budget’s vision is to establish an equitable society, and this proposal starkly contradicts that goal.”