The Income Tax Intelligence and Investigation Unit of the National Board of Revenue (NBR) has reported significant progress in identifying tax evasion and recovering lost revenue since its formal launch in December 2024. The unit has been conducting extensive investigations throughout the 2025–2026 fiscal year up to April, with the objective of restoring discipline and compliance within the country’s tax administration system.
According to official sources, more than 3,300 income tax files are currently under investigation on allegations of tax evasion. These inquiries span both individual taxpayers and corporate entities. Preliminary findings suggest that approximately Tk 7,000 crore in evaded taxes has been identified through systematic scrutiny and forensic examination of financial records.
A substantial portion of this identified amount has already been recovered and deposited into the national exchequer. By April of the current fiscal year alone, Tk 532 crore in evaded income tax has been successfully realised. Of this, Tk 414 crore was recovered specifically during the ongoing fiscal year, reflecting an accelerated pace of enforcement activities.
Authorities indicate that once tax evasion is proven through investigation, concerned taxpayers are being required to settle outstanding liabilities in phases, ensuring compliance with due legal procedures. The evasion cases involve both underreporting of income and concealment of taxable assets across multiple assessment years.
The initiative is being widely viewed as a strengthening factor in the country’s broader revenue mobilisation strategy. By targeting systemic irregularities, the unit is helping to enhance transparency, discourage tax avoidance, and promote a culture of fair contribution among taxpayers.
Experts note that continued investment in technological tools, data analytics, and specialised training for tax officials will further improve the effectiveness of detection and recovery operations. Such improvements are expected to bring structural changes to revenue administration in the coming years.
Commissioner of the Income Tax Intelligence and Investigation Unit, Dr Lutfun Nahar Begum, stated that officials are working with sustained commitment to uncover tax irregularities and maximise revenue recovery. She further emphasised that enforcement activities will be expanded and intensified in the future to strengthen the country’s fiscal foundation.
Summary of Tax Evasion Investigation and Recovery
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Files under investigation | Over 3,300 |
| Estimated evaded tax detected | Approximately Tk 7,000 crore |
| Total recovery (up to April) | Tk 532 crore |
| Recovery in current fiscal year | Tk 414 crore |
| Unit operational since | December 2024 |
Overall, the ongoing drive against tax evasion is being regarded as a crucial step towards improving fiscal discipline and reinforcing economic governance. The sustained recovery of dues and expansion of investigations signal a more assertive and structured approach to revenue enforcement.