In a break from tradition, Bangladesh Bank will not be releasing new currency notes for Eid this year. The decision has caused disappointment among many who look forward to receiving crisp new notes as part of the festive celebrations.
Interim government economic advisor Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed addressed public concerns in a recent talk show with journalist Khaled Mahmud. He attributed the delay to Bangladesh Bank’s late decision-making. “The central bank could have acted earlier. During my tenure as governor, we avoided personal portraits on banknotes and instead used historical landmarks,” he stated. 
Dr. Salehuddin also revealed that the newly designed banknotes, expected to roll out in April, will not feature any individual’s portrait. “Previously, banknotes carried the image of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, but the upcoming notes will move away from this practice,” he added.
The delay in issuing new currency has even drawn concern from the Chief Advisor of the interim government. While Bangladesh Bank has assured that the new notes will be ready by April, there will be no fresh releases for Eid. Instead, existing 500 and 1,000 taka notes will circulate, but without additional reprints.
Addressing criticism over the lack of planning, Dr. Salehuddin acknowledged that earlier action—potentially before the new government took office—could have ensured timely availability. He also suggested that the absence of new notes might encourage digital transactions, reducing dependency on physical cash.
For now, Bangladeshis will have to wait a little longer for redesigned currency—one that marks a shift away from personal imagery towards a more neutral, historical representation.
Via – Ittefaq
