Bangladesh Bank to Issue New Currency Notes Without Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s Image

Dhaka:Bangladesh Bank has announced plans to release new currency notes within the next six months, which will not feature the image of the country’s founding father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. The central bank’s spokesperson and Executive Director, Hasan Ara Shekha, confirmed the decision, stating that the government has approved the new designs, and the remaining processes will soon be completed.

The new currency notes will feature images of religious symbols, Bangladesh’s heritage, and elements related to the July revolution, according to Bangladesh Bank officials. The new designs will initially be implemented on 20, 100, 500, and 1000 Taka notes.

The Security Printing Corporation Bangladesh Limited (commonly known as the Mint), which prints the country’s currency, has already begun the printing process. However, if the government opts for a completely new design, the process could become more complex, requiring new tenders, security clearances, and verification, which may extend the timeline to 18-20 months. On the other hand, if the current design plates are reused, the new notes could be ready within six months.

Hasan Ara explained that Bangladesh Bank does not print currency regularly, as notes typically remain in circulation for 4-5 years. Smaller notes, which are used frequently, wear out faster and need to be reprinted more often.

The last redesign of currency notes took place in 2020, with a 200 Taka note featuring Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s image. The last time currency notes without his image were issued was in 2009 under then-Governor Salehuddin Ahmed, who is now serving as the economic advisor to the interim government.