Hassle-free tax payment at the 'Tax Fair'

From today, the annual 'Tax Fair' will begin across the country. Over the past few years, the fair has been a convenient spot for citizens to file their tax returns without facing any problems.

The Fair in Dhaka will go on at the Officers' Club until November 19. At district level, the fair will run for four days while it will be held for two days at the upazila level.

The annual event has been held since 2010. Over the years, its popularity has continued to increase. While helping taxpayers, it has also roped in new taxpayers.

Last year, I had the opportunity to visit the tax fair in Dhaka. There was a festive atmosphere inside. Visitors were happy as the fair was well-organised. The taxmen were very helpful and efficient.

I think this year the fair will be more organised. Several dailies have reported that the fair this year will feature audios and videos that will generate awareness among taxpayers about taxation policies and tax return method. Also, taxpayers will be able to ask tax officials any tax-related query through tele-learning system.

Tax plays an important role in the growth of the economy. Usually, most taxpayers are scared of filing taxes. Some go to lawyers who charge hefty fees. Others try to shift the burden to their office staff, as they fear corruption and other hassles at the government offices.

But such problems do not occur at the tax fair.

It is quite embarrassing that less than two per cent of the entire population of Bangladesh pay taxes. It is time that everyone became aware of their responsibilities to the nation and started paying taxes.

Nadim Javed

Tejgaon, Dhaka