Dhaka, 13 February 2026 – Bangladesh Bank has lifted temporary restrictions on mobile banking services, including bKash, Nagad, and Rocket, following the conclusion of the national parliamentary elections. The central bank had imposed the curbs from the midnight of 9 February until 12 February to prevent potential misuse of funds during the electoral period.
During the restriction period, person-to-person (P2P) transactions were capped at Tk1,000 per transaction, with a maximum of 10 transactions per day. Merchant payments and utility bill settlements remained unaffected throughout. However, many users reported difficulties in sending or receiving money for urgent financial needs, highlighting the challenges faced during the temporary curbs.
According to central bank officials, the restrictions were part of a standard precautionary measure implemented ahead of elections. With the parliamentary polls successfully concluded, the bank reviewed the situation and authorised the resumption of regular services after the stipulated 96-hour period.
The National Payment Switch Bangladesh (NPSB) had temporarily suspended P2P transactions through internet banking, while mobile financial service (MFS) platforms such as bKash, Nagad, and Rocket adhered to the same limits. Now, both MFS and internet banking transactions have returned to their normal operating limits.
A spokesperson from Bangladesh Bank emphasised that the temporary measures were designed solely to ensure the integrity of financial transactions during a sensitive electoral window and that customer convenience remained a priority.
Mobile Banking Restrictions During Election Period
| Feature | Restriction Period (9–12 Feb 2026) | Post-13 Feb 2026 Status |
|---|---|---|
| P2P Transaction Limit (MFS) | Tk1,000 per transaction | Restored to normal limits |
| Maximum P2P Transactions per Day | 10 | No limit |
| Merchant Payments | Unaffected | Normal operation |
| Utility Bill Payments | Unaffected | Normal operation |
| Internet Banking P2P | Suspended | Restored |
With the lifting of these temporary restrictions, customers can now freely perform financial transactions, send money to family and friends, and pay merchants without the previously imposed caps. The resumption of normal services is expected to relieve pressure on both personal and commercial financial activities, particularly in urban and rural areas where mobile banking plays a vital role in daily commerce.
Financial analysts noted that while the curbs were brief, they highlighted the growing importance of mobile financial services in Bangladesh’s economy, and the central bank’s proactive approach in safeguarding the electoral process.