Bangladesh, Aug. 4 -- Proof of income tax payment is now mandatory to obtain a host of services, including a utility connection in a city corporation area and to enrol a student in an English medium school.

Similarly, income tax return documents must now be submitted to banks in order to make or maintain fixed deposits of over Tk 1 million.

The same rule applies for taking out a bank loan exceeding Tk 2 million, or to purchase savings certificates worth more than Tk 1 million.

Bangladesh Bank has issued a circular to this effect, covering 24 types of banking services. The directive has already been sent to the top executives of all banks.

According to the circular, if someone fails to show proof of tax return submission while requesti...