The government has now ordered action against financial institutions (FIs) controlled by Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami and the beleaguered party's front organisation Shibir, officials said.
They informed that the Banks and Financial Institutions Division (BFID) under the Ministry of Finance (MoF) forwarded Sunday a 216-page report to Bangladesh Bank for taking action recommended by the Ministry of Home Affairs.
BFID secretary Dr Aslam Alam told the FE that the government is working to stop money laundering and terror financing in line with the ongoing global drive against the twin financial offences.
He said the latest directive was given to expedite the government's endeavour to stop such illegal financing.
Mr Alam said identifying investment by a particular party or its associates and leaders is very difficult. "And it is very tough for central bank to identify individuals working in banks and financial institutions whether they are involved with Jamaat politics or not."
Sources said the home ministry in its report made various recommendations and listed names of institutions owned or controlled by people involved with the politics of  Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami and its associate organisations.
The home ministry prepared the report based on information gathered by various intelligence agencies.
Sources said the names of some welfare organisations and educational institutions were also included in the list for taking actions in line with the home ministry's recommendations.
Contacted by the FE correspondent, deputy governor of Bangladesh Bank Abu Hena Md Raji Hasan, also head of financial intelligence unit, acknowledged having received the directive from finance ministry and said the central bank would now examine wherefrom and how the actions can be taken.
"We are examining the procedure for taking actions and which department can be made responsible for this reason," he said.
Mr Hasan, however, wouldn't divulge the content of the report.
When contacted, former deputy governor of Bangladesh Bank Khondkar Ibrahim Khaled termed it a political issue.
"I believe the central bank won't take any step on political reasons. But it has something to do if there is any irregularities or money laundering-type offences," he said.
Asked whether such move would cast any negative impact on stability of financial institutions, Mr Khaled said steps should be taken only after allegations are proved.
Replying to a query whether the investors and clients of the financial institutions would get panicked because of the move, he said it would depend on the extensity of measures taken.
Mr Khaled noted the country is bigger than financial institutions. "If the subversive acts that happened in the past were taken into consideration, proper steps need to be taken against individuals or organisations involved."
   syful-islam@outlook.com
Govt orders action against FIs of Jamaat, Shibir
Syful Islam | Published: November 24, 2015 00:00:00 | Updated: November 30, 2024 06:01:00
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