Parents must now show proof of income tax return submission to enroll their children in English medium schools located in city corporation areas, district towns, or municipalities. The new requirement comes under a broader directive from the Bangladesh Bank, aiming to ensure compliance with tax regulations across various sectors.
According to a circular issued by the central bank, submission of income tax return documents is now compulsory for a wide range of services. Among them, admission to English medium schools has been highlighted as a key area where enforcement will begin immediately.
The directive clearly states that without valid proof of tax return submission, schools are not permitted to complete the admission process. If any institution violates the rule, action may be taken against the responsible authorities.
This step is part of a larger policy shift to bring more citizens under the tax net and promote a culture of accountability. The government believes that parents who can afford the high fees of English medium institutions should also be responsible taxpayers.
In addition to school admissions, the same rule applies to services like opening fixed deposits over Tk 1 million, taking bank loans above Tk 2 million, buying savings certificates, and getting utility connections. Business owners, professionals, and sponsor shareholders must also comply to access certain services.
The Bangladesh Bank stated that the decision aligns with global efforts to prevent tax evasion and follows international agreements on avoiding double taxation. All banks and relevant institutions have already received instructions for immediate implementation.
This move is expected to encourage more citizens to submit their income tax returns regularly, especially among the urban middle and upper classes who often send their children to English medium schools.
