The Bangladesh Bank has announced it will not offer any incentives to businesses to mitigate financial losses incurred during the curfew and general holidays imposed amid the violent Student Movement Against Discrimination.

Recently, businesspeople have been requesting several benefits from the central bank, including loan repayment concessions, through various trade bodies.

In a press briefing on Tuesday, senior officials of the central bank declared that no such facilities would be provided.

Kazi Sayedur Rahman, deputy governor of the Bangladesh Bank, stated, "Businessmen received numerous concessions during the Covid-19 pandemic and after the Ukraine-Russia war outbreak. Currently, there is no scope to provide additional concessions to businesses. All businesses must repay their loans on time."

He began his speech by praying for the souls of those who perished in the student movement, which resulted in over 400 deaths and several thousand injuries, and he wished a speedy recovery for the injured.

Rahman mentioned that the unrest stemmed from long-standing anger and deprivation among the people.

"Our post-Covid reserves have decreased as deferred payments and imports have increased. We will now expedite the process of bringing in export earnings that are stuck abroad. Additionally, we hope expatriates will send significant remittances once the new government is established, which will help boost our reserves," Rahman said.

He acknowledged the responsibility for the economic damage and the failure to address issues properly in the past. Rahman expressed optimism about stopping the economic downturn now.

He emphasized, "We have zero tolerance for irregularities. Our bank officers are very professional. Any corruption or money laundering will be addressed according to the law."

Rahman expressed confidence that their officers would work with renewed enthusiasm and courage, highlighting their talent, honesty, and bravery.

He assured that banking operations would remain open to ensure smooth financial transactions and international payments.

Md Khurshid Alam, another deputy governor, added, "We have to work within many constraints. Our stance was, 'Just as you can't fight crocodiles in water.' Now, we can tackle corruption with full strength."

"We must navigate various limitations and challenges. We can address irregularities when we have job security. I believe we will work independently under the all-party government," he stated.

Deputy Governor Nurun Nahar noted, "There are sufficient laws to address irregularities and corruption in the financial sector. These laws were not enforced earlier due to various limitations, but now is the time for proper implementation."

Nahar expressed hope for a brighter future for Bangladesh with the formation of a new all-party government, celebrating a new victory despite the bloodshed.

"We had many things to say in the past but couldn't voice them. You understand why we were unable to do so; we had to contend with numerous challenges. Hopefully, these limitations will no longer exist," she concluded.