The Bangladesh government is considering cutting corporate tax by 5 per cent of companies that will employ around 100 transgender people, stated a report. The country wants to foster inclusion of the third-gender community into mainstream society, stated an official of the Finance Ministry and the National Board of Revenue (NBR).
According to Dhaka Times report, in the upcoming budget for the 2021-22 fiscal year, “corporate tax is going to be waived if any company recruits 100 members of the transgender community, commonly known as Hijras in Bangladesh”.
A member of Dhaka Chambers of Commerce and Industries (DCCI), wishing to remain anonymous, said, “Undoubtedly, this is a praiseworthy decision. But in reality, employment for them in factories and companies is challenging due to the mindset of mainstream society and a lack of educational background of the Hijras.”
Before employment, companies will have to train not just the community but also sensitise the people in their companies.
