CPD proposes CCTV coverage at NBR officials' rooms to combat corruption

The Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD) has proposed installing CCTV cameras in all officials' rooms at the National Board of Revenue (NBR) building to combat widespread corruption and enhance transparency.

The recommendation was made by CPD Senior Research Associate Tamim Ahmed.

The call for greater transparency was underscored by a personal anecdote from Ahmed himself as he alleged that when he attempted to collect data for research from the NBR, officials demanded a bribe.

In his written recommendations, Ahmed stated that CCTV cameras could "enhance transparency, accountability, and help prevent corruption by acting as a deterrent against illegal transactions."

He added that such a measure must be implemented with strict data security protocols to ensure that only authorised personnel have access to the footage.

CPD Research Director Khondaker Golam Moazzem corroborated this, saying he also faced difficulties in obtaining data from the NBR.

The proposal comes amid new survey findings that reveal a significant lack of trust in the tax administration.

Several other discussants at the event, which was also attended by NBR Chairman Md Abdur Rahman Khan and other senior revenue officials, also reported a lack of transparency and prevalence of corruption within the NBR.

A CPD survey, released today (26 August) at a dialogue titled "Reform in Corporate Tax and VAT: A Justice Perspective for NBR", found that 72% of businesses believe there is widespread corruption among tax officials, and 82% of respondents consider the current tax system to be unfair.