Why this discrimination with new notes?

On Eid day, many people like to give new notes to younger family members as a token of love. This is one of the joys of Eid, especially for the children. So, although there is not much demand for new notes throughout the year, the value of new notes increases during the Eid season. And that's when the traders get a chance to destabilise the market. They hiked exchange rates for new notes. Most traders in this business operate in Gulistan and Motijheel areas of the city.

It is not unknown that a strong syndicate runs the show. Who take new notes out of the banks in various ways and sell them in the open market. This year, Bangladesh Bank announced that it will not issue new notes before Eid. Although initially this initiative was considered a good one, doubts and concerns were raised when Bangladesh Bank later announced that it would only issue new notes for its employees. This is not fair!

For many, new notes during Eid are a tradition and an occasion for joy. So, even if they have to pay more money, they will collect new notes for their loved ones in the family. If Bangladesh Bank had announced that no new notes would be given to anyone this time, it would be appreciated. At least the syndicate behind new notes related business would have been closed. But by giving new notes only to its own officials and employees, it seems that the syndicate has been given an opportunity to collect additional money from the people.

If new notes are issued, those should be given to everyone. Otherwise, it should be given to no one. May the joy of Eid be equal for everyone!

Fahim Habib

Mohonpur, Ring Road, Shamoly, Dhaka

fahimhabib227@gmail.com