To our selfish affluent class

This is in response to the letter written by our learned affluent countryman, MAAZ, published in The Daily Star on 9th December, 2014. It was captioned “Cultivating the culture of giving back”. Our affluent Bangladeshi friend circulates an interesting policy. The policy postulates that it is alright to enrich already developed countries with the money earned in Bangladesh! To him and many others Bangladesh is not a secure country. May I ask him why has he decided to remain in Bangladesh and enjoyed all the facilities provided by the government even though he does not consider it a safe country, and amassed the wealth? It is safe to earn in Bangladesh but not safe to keep the money so earned here! It is indeed an interesting logic. The inaugural speech of late President John F. Kennedy was also quoted. We fully agree that we should ask ourselves, what we can do for our country. And that country is Bangladesh and not Canada, USA, Australia, or Malaysia.

Tata Sons of India is a legendary and highly commendable example of philanthropy. Public welfare reigned supreme in all their planning and activities. RP Shaha has been immortalised by Kumudini Trust. We appreciate the contributions of our industrialists, affluent class in creating jobs, generating income, re-investing in expansions etc. We only condemn money-laundering activities of a great many of them. We would like to ask our affluent class a few simple questions: 1. How do you plan to give back to your society and country? 2. Are you paying full taxes? Lastly, please read the philanthropic activities of Tata Sons, Birlas, Bill Gates, the Chinese, the Filipinos, etc. They undertake CSR activities and also help their own governments.

Dr. SN Mamoon
A full tax payer
Dhaka