Proper zakat management can effectively reduce poverty: PM

Proper zakat management can effectively reduce poverty: PM

Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Tarique Rahman has stated that proper management of zakat can play an effective role in poverty alleviation in the country. He also remarked that if zakat is distributed in a targeted and planned manner, poverty could be reduced through this system within the next 10 to 15 years.

He made these comments while addressing an Iftar Mahfil organised in honour of the country's ulema, mashaikh and orphans on the 17th day of the holy month of Ramadan at Jamuna on Saturday, March 7.

Tarique Rahman said that there are currently around four crore families in the country, comprising both rich and poor. He believes that if poor and ultra-poor families among these are identified and five lakh families are given Tk one lakh each as zakat annually, many families would no longer depend on zakat in subsequent years.

Addressing the ulema, he said that if the idea of reducing poverty through zakat management appears logical, then the ulema and mashaikh can play a vital role in raising awareness among the wealthy.

He further informed that to strengthen zakat management, the existing Zakat Board under the Ministry of Religious Affairs could be restructured by including the country's top ulema, Islamic scholars and government officials. In his view, proper zakat management offers an opportunity to present Bangladesh as a model for the Islamic world.

Tarique Rahman mentioned that various studies show the annual amount of zakat in the country exceeds Tk 20,000 to 25,000 crore. However, due to the lack of well-planned and organised distribution of zakat, questions remain about how effectively its true benefits are being utilised for poverty alleviation.

On this occasion, he said that although the holy month of Ramadan is a month of sacrifice, restraint and mercy, prices of essential commodities are often increased during this month. He called upon those who resort to dishonest means hoping for extra profits during Ramadan to refrain from such actions.

He further informed that while Iftar Mahfils in honour of ulema and orphans are usually organised at the beginning of Ramadan, this year's event was held somewhat later due to the current situation in the country. Additionally, as part of cost-cutting measures in the gas, electricity and fuel sectors due to the global situation, only two Iftar Mahfils have been organised this year on a limited scale. He also noted that if the situation does not improve, this might be the last Iftar event of the current Ramadan.