The new Bangladeshi government has decided to redesign the country’s currency notes and remove the images of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. Some sources have claimed that the government is also considering printing the image of Muhammad Ali Jinnah on the notes to honor him as the founder of the nation, similar to Pakistan. However, these claims have yet to be confirmed.
As per Bangladeshi media, the government has undertaken a plan to redesign banknotes, starting with Tk 20, Tk 100, Tk 500, and Tk 1000 denominations. As per the plan, the new notes will no longer feature images of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.
The Ministry of Finance and Bangladesh Bank confirmed the decision, marking a shift from the current designs that prominently display the image of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.
Initially, only the four denominations will undergo the redesign, but officials said that changes to all denominations will follow in a phased manner.
A letter from the Ministry of Finance, dated September 29, instructed Bangladesh Bank to submit detailed design proposals for the new notes. The central bank’s Currency and Design Advisory Committee will play a key role in evaluating and recommending these changes.
It is requested to send the specific proposal to the finance division as soon as possible after accepting the recommendation of the Currency and Design Advisory Committee of the Bangladesh Bank,” the letter read, urging prompt action in finalizing the designs.
The decision to remove Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s image is seen as a departure from the past practice under the Sheikh Hasina government, which prominently featured his likeness on both sides of several notes and even on coins. Currently, paper notes from Tk 2 to Tk 1000 all bear his photo.
It should be noted that Bangladesh was part of Pakistan until 1971, following the subcontinent’s freedom from British rule in 1947. However, due to misunderstandings, Bangladesh became a separate country after 25 years.
There is still a significant number of people in Bangladesh who want to rejoin Pakistan, and the recent change in government and the end of Sheikh Hasina’s administration has further incited affection for Pakistan in the country.
In this context, the possibility of printing the image of Jinnah on Bangladeshi currency notes cannot be ruled out.
