The central bank has provided liquidity support of Tk 22,500 crore to 6 banks in distress. As a result, customers will receive money from the banks from next Sunday. However, it has been advised not to withdraw more money than required.
The banks are – First Security Islami Bank, Social Islami Bank, Global Islami Bank, Union Bank, Exim Bank and National Bank.
Bangladesh Bank Governor Dr. Ahsan H. Mansur said this on Thursday (November 28). The chairmen of the banks were present at the time.
The governor said that Tk 22,500 crore has been provided to the six banks, and more will be provided if necessary. From next Sunday, no customer will return from the bank without getting money. Customers are requested to withdraw as much money as they need.
Regarding the change of decision, the Governor said, I had said that I would not print money. But I have temporarily withdrawn from that. I will withdraw that money through bond issues. But the monitoring policy remains as tight as before. There is no net money creation here. On the one hand, assistance is being provided, on the other hand, I am withdrawing it through bonds. This assistance will be given according to the needs of the customers.
He said, I have to protect both depositors and inflation. I said that I would not print money. But doesn’t the position of the people change?
In response to the question that the previous government also provided assistance by printing money, what is the difference? The Governor said, now money theft has stopped. Every bank is being monitored. Money is no longer being stolen from banks. Earlier, even after providing assistance by printing money, money used to be laundered. But now accountability is being ensured. Every bank is being monitored. The board has been changed.
Regarding S Alam’s threat to file a case, the governor said, “What he will do is his business. We will sell their assets according to the law and return the depositors’ money. We have discussed the legal process with the Attorney General. This is being done through the legal process.”
Regarding the bankers’ movement and pressure from influential people, the governor said, “I will not accept mob justice. If anyone pressures me, I will leave my job. But I will not tolerate any irregularities.”
Regarding taking action against those who were involved in irregularities in the past, he said, “We have to look ahead. We do not have the opportunity to look back. I will not take any action on my own unless I receive specific complaints. There is factionalism here. Red and blue parties work for the central bank without representing them.”
Regarding non-performing loans, the governor said, “Until now, the picture of actual non-performing loans was not revealed. Now it will be calculated according to the correct rules. Even if the non-performing loans exceed 25 percent, there is nothing to be done.”
