The BHRB also urged the government to reform the tax administration in a bid to bring dynamism in collecting the VAT and other taxes.

"Human rights will be seriously violated if the government collects tax forcibly from the poor by promulgating law," said Justice Abdur Rouf, president of the BHRB while addressing a press conference at Dhaka Reporters Unity auditorium.

Referring to examples of the developed countries, he said mass-consciousness is more essential for tax collection than enacting new law. "The authority should focus more on escalating efficiency of the taxation structure and curbing corruption," Justice Rouf added.

The changes in self-assessment system proposed in the budget will hinder tax collection, he noted.

Mohammed Shahjahan, secretary general of the BHRB, said forcing the people, who do not have taxable earnings, to submit tax return is unfair and oppressing.

Mentioning some Asian countries known as the "Asian tigers", Shahjahan said it is essential to cut taxes on raw material for smooth industrialisation.

The BHRB suggested the government to form a tax lawyers council in accordance with Bangladesh Bar Council.

It asked the government to cancel from the proposed budget the provision that has made trade licence mandatory for doctors, engineers and lawyers.