Shafiqur Rahman, the opposition leader in the 13th National Parliament and Ameer of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, has criticized the reported plan to impose taxes on motorcycle owners, calling the move anti-public and urging the government to reconsider the proposal.
In a statement posted on his verified Facebook page on Sunday, the Jamaat chief said most motorcycle owners and riders are not wealthy individuals. Instead, they rely on motorcycles as an essential means of transportation for their daily work and livelihood.
He acknowledged that expanding the tax net may be necessary for increasing state revenue, but argued that placing additional financial pressure on ordinary citizens already struggling with economic challenges would be unfair.
Shafiqur Rahman wrote that people using motorcycles are often involved in constant efforts to support their families and maintain their livelihoods. Imposing extra taxes on them, he said, would add further hardship to their lives.
He also expressed hope that the government would step back from the idea if such a proposal is under consideration. Otherwise, he warned, the decision would be viewed as one that goes against public interest.
