Outbound Investment and Citizenship: Unlocking Global Opportunities with TRW Law Firm
In an era defined by globalization, ease of mobility, and cross-border transactions, outbound investments and citizenship programs have become increasingly attractive avenues for individuals and businesses. The ability to secure a second citizenship or permanent residency in a foreign country, alongside the potential to invest in global markets, represents not only personal or corporate growth but also access to broader economic opportunities. TRW Law Firm, with its comprehensive expertise, provides the guidance and support necessary to navigate these complex areas.
The Global Appeal of Citizenship and Residency by Investment
Citizenship and residency programs have emerged as significant tools for enhancing global mobility and diversifying investment opportunities. These programs are particularly valuable for entrepreneurs, investors, and high-net-worth individuals seeking to establish a foothold in international markets. The benefits include:
Visa-Free Travel: Many citizenship programs, such as those in the Caribbean or Europe, provide visa-free access to numerous countries, significantly reducing travel barriers for business or leisure.
Economic Opportunities: Access to stable and developed economies allows investors to participate in profitable ventures and diversify their portfolios.
Quality of Life: Citizenship or residency in countries with advanced healthcare, education, and infrastructure systems ensures a better lifestyle.
Outbound Investment Landscape for SAARC Countries
For citizens of SAARC countries, outbound investments are often constrained by exchange control regulations. These rules, designed to manage foreign exchange reserves, impose barriers on free currency conversion and foreign investments. TRW Law Firm specializes in advising clients on navigating these regulatory challenges.
Key Considerations:
Legal Sources of Investment: Investments must originate from legitimate sources and comply with anti-money laundering regulations.
Banking Channels: Payments for services and investments must flow through authorized banking channels to ensure compliance.
Exchange Control Compliance: Understanding and adhering to foreign exchange laws is critical, as non-compliance can result in severe penalties.
Investment Pathways for Citizenship and Residency
St. Lucia Citizenship by Investment Program
St. Lucia’s citizenship program is one of the most attractive options for individuals seeking a second passport. With visa-free access to 127 countries, including the European Union, Schengen areas, and major Asian hubs like Singapore and Hong Kong, St. Lucia offers unparalleled global mobility.
Key Features:
Investment Requirements:
A non-refundable contribution to the National Economic Fund (NEF) starting at USD 100,000.
Real estate investment ranging from $300,000 to $3.5 million in approved projects.
Dual Citizenship: St. Lucia allows dual citizenship, enabling applicants to retain their original nationality.
Residency: Physical residency is not required, making it a convenient option for global investors.
Portugal’s Golden Visa Program
Portugal’s Golden Visa program is a gateway to European residency and citizenship. Known for its stable economy and global reputation, Portugal attracts significant foreign investment.
Key Features:
Residency Requirements:
Only 35 days of stay are required over a five-year period to maintain residency.
Eligibility for naturalization after six years of residency.
Investment Options:
Approved investments start at €500,000, often in real estate or business ventures.
Dual Citizenship: Portugal permits dual citizenship, allowing investors to retain their original nationality.
Corporate Expansion Through Outbound Investments
Outbound investments are not limited to individuals. Businesses from Bangladesh and other SAARC countries are increasingly exploring opportunities to establish subsidiaries, branch offices, or partnerships abroad. These ventures require meticulous planning and adherence to legal and tax frameworks.
Opening a Branch Office
For Bangladeshi companies, opening a branch office abroad is subject to foreign exchange regulations and tax considerations. TRW Law Firm provides guidance on:
Permitted Investments: Determining allowable investments under Bangladesh’s foreign exchange regulations.
Tax Residency: Ensuring compliance with double taxation treaties to avoid redundant tax obligations.
Establishing a Subsidiary
Unlike branch offices, subsidiaries often require special permissions due to stricter foreign exchange laws. TRW Law Firm assists clients in:
Navigating the regulatory approval process.
Conducting due diligence to ensure legal compliance.
Structuring the subsidiary to align with international standards.
Investing in Foreign Stock Markets
The allure of investing in multinational corporations like Google, Facebook, and other tech giants remains strong. However, for citizens of SAARC countries, exchange control regulations pose significant challenges. TRW Law Firm advises on:
Specialized Accounts: Opening accounts that permit foreign investments in compliance with local laws.
Legal Due Diligence: Ensuring the legality of transactions and mitigating risks associated with foreign investments.
Non-Refundable Contributions to Government Programs
Certain citizenship programs require non-refundable contributions to national funds or government-approved projects. These payments, while substantial, open doors to extensive benefits.
Example: St. Lucia’s National Economic Fund (NEF)
Contributions range from $100,000 for single applicants to $190,000 for families of four.
Funds are used to support national development initiatives, ensuring economic impact.
Example: Portugal’s Investment Options
Investment in real estate, cultural heritage, or scientific research starting at €500,000.
Contributions are tailored to promote economic growth and innovation.
Legal Due Diligence and Risk Management
Outbound investments and citizenship programs involve significant financial commitments. Legal due diligence ensures that:
Investments Are Secure: Identifying and mitigating risks associated with fraudulent schemes.
Compliance Is Maintained: Ensuring adherence to both local and international regulations.
Long-Term Benefits Are Realized: Structuring investments to maximize returns and safeguard assets.
TRW Law Firm’s Expertise
TRW Law Firm offers a comprehensive suite of services tailored to outbound investments and citizenship programs. Our expertise encompasses:
Legal Advisory: Providing detailed insights into regulatory frameworks.
Document Preparation: Ensuring all documentation meets stringent legal standards.
Collaboration with Foreign Partners: Coordinating with international legal and financial experts to streamline processes.
Tax Planning: Structuring investments to optimize tax efficiency.
Conclusion
Outbound investment and citizenship programs represent transformative opportunities for individuals and businesses alike. With TRW Law Firm’s unparalleled expertise, clients can navigate these complex pathways with confidence, ensuring compliance and maximizing benefits.
Summary Table
Program/Option
Key Features
Investment Requirement
Residency Requirements
St. Lucia Citizenship
Visa-free travel to 127 countries, dual citizenship, no physical residency required
$100,000 (NEF) or $300,000 – $3.5M (Real Estate)
None
Portugal Golden Visa
Access to Schengen area, eligibility for naturalization, dual citizenship allowed
€500,000+
35 days over 5 years
Branch Office (Bangladeshi)
Expansion into foreign markets, subject to tax residency and double taxation treaties
Subject to FOREX regulations
Complies with Bangladesh tax residency laws
Subsidiary (Bangladeshi)
Requires special permissions, enables international operations
Special approval needed
Complies with Bangladesh and host country laws
Foreign Stock Market Investment
Investment in multinational corporations, subject to local laws and due diligence
Fundamental Rights, Judicial Review, and Writs in Bangladesh in 2025
Fundamental rights, as guaranteed by the Constitution of Bangladesh, serve as the cornerstone of justice, equality, and liberty. These rights ensure that citizens are protected from arbitrary actions of the state and that justice prevails in all aspects of governance. Judicial review and writ petitions are the mechanisms through which these rights are enforced, ensuring that any violation or arbitrary action by public authorities is scrutinized and rectified by the judiciary.
At TRW Law Firm, we have unparalleled expertise in dealing with cases involving judicial review and writ petitions. Our legal professionals have successfully represented clients in diverse sectors, providing effective remedies through the High Court and the Appellate Division.
Fundamental Rights in Bangladesh
The Constitution of Bangladesh guarantees fundamental rights to its citizens under Part III (Articles 26 to 47A). These rights are enforceable through the judiciary, ensuring that the principles of justice, equality, and fairness are upheld.
Key Fundamental Rights
Equality Before the Law (Article 27): All citizens are equal before the law and entitled to equal protection of the law.
Prohibition of Discrimination (Article 28): Discrimination on the grounds of religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth is prohibited.
Right to Life and Liberty (Article 31): No person shall be deprived of life or personal liberty except in accordance with the law.
Freedom of Speech and Expression (Article 39): Citizens have the right to freedom of speech, subject to reasonable restrictions.
Right to Property (Article 42): Citizens have the right to acquire, hold, transfer, or dispose of property.
Right to Protection of Law (Article 44): Citizens can enforce their fundamental rights through the writ jurisdiction of the High Court.
Judicial Review and Writs
Judicial review is the process by which the judiciary examines the legality of actions taken by public authorities. Writ petitions, a significant part of judicial review, empower citizens to challenge any arbitrary, unlawful, or unconstitutional action or inaction by public officials or institutions.
Types of Writs
The Constitution of Bangladesh provides for five main types of writs under Article 102(2):
Habeas Corpus: Protects individuals against unlawful detention.
Mandamus: Compels public authorities to perform a duty they are legally obligated to fulfill.
Prohibition: Prevents inferior courts or tribunals from exceeding their jurisdiction.
Certiorari: Quashes unlawful decisions made by public authorities.
Quo Warranto: Challenges the legality of a person holding a public office.
TRW Law Firm’s Expertise in Judicial Review and Writs
Our team comprises highly skilled advocates with extensive experience in handling writ petitions across various sectors. Below are some of the key sectors and our notable achievements:
Real Estate
Successfully challenged RAJUK’s eviction order against a reputed company in Banani and Gulshan.
Acted for owners of a multistoried commercial building, overturning a notice issued by RAJUK without considering prior representations.
Employment
Protected the promotional rights of two dozen employees of a statutory corporation by obtaining a stay on an impugned recruitment circular.
Advocated for 400+ surplus employees of DESA during their transition to DPDC, securing their right to selection.
Case Reference: Reported in 2CLR (HCD) 523.
Power & Energy
Challenged Titas Gas‘ decision to provide gas connections to factories from an exclusive line constructed by a Japanese garment exporter.
Represented power sector companies in writ petitions involving electricity connections and other regulatory disputes.
Taxation
Successfully argued against arbitrary VAT demands in cases involving discrepancies in price declarations and wastage of raw materials.
Case Reference: Anwar Cement Limited vs. Bangladesh Bank, reported in 65 DLR (2013) 97.
Resolved customs exemption disputes for BPDB and other clients.
Case Reference: Amjad Hossain vs. Bangladesh Bank, reported in 17 BLC (HC) 188.
Banking
Assisted UBICO in challenging CIB classification of borrowers.
Successfully argued in forex matters, securing exceptions for Bangladesh Bank on natural justice grounds.
Case Reference: S.M. Akbar & Another vs. Bangladesh Bank, reported in 70 DLR (2018) 52.5 CLR (HCD) (2017) 307.
Contempt of Court
Handled multiple contempt petitions over a decade, ensuring compliance with High Court orders in various sectors.
Privacy and Confidentiality
The recent amendments to the Income Tax Ordinance, 1984 have raised concerns about potential breaches of confidentiality. Our firm is actively addressing issues related to data privacy and the misuse of authority by tax officials.
Practice Guide: Filing Writ Petitions
Filing a successful writ petition requires meticulous preparation and a deep understanding of both procedural and substantive law. Below is a step-by-step guide to filing writs:
Step 1: Identifying Grounds for the Writ
Violation of fundamental rights.
Arbitrary or unlawful action by public authorities.
Lack of jurisdiction or procedural irregularities.
Step 2: Gathering Evidence
Collect relevant documents, such as notices, orders, or correspondence.
Ensure the authenticity and accuracy of all submitted materials.
Step 3: Drafting the Petition
Clearly outline the facts, legal grounds, and relief sought.
Cite relevant constitutional provisions, statutes, and case laws.
Step 4: Filing the Petition
Submit the petition to the High Court Division along with the necessary affidavits and fees.
Step 5: Arguing the Case
Present compelling arguments before the court, emphasizing the violation of rights or procedural lapses.
Sector-Specific Applications of Judicial Review
Education
Addressing issues like the cancellation of licenses or the arbitrary denial of affiliation.
Advocating for natural justice and procedural fairness.
Local Government
Challenging arbitrary actions, such as cancellation of trade licenses or denial of public services.
Land
Disputes related to demarcation, acquisition, and mutation.
Power & Energy
Resolving issues involving gas and electricity connections, and compliance with regulatory frameworks.
Key Challenges in Judicial Review
Delay in Adjudication: The backlog of cases often results in delays.
Complex Procedural Requirements: Non-compliance with procedural rules can result in dismissal.
Lack of Awareness: Many citizens are unaware of their rights and the remedies available through writs.
Judicial Review and Writs
Category
Details
Key Case References
Fundamental Rights
Ensuring equality, life, liberty, property, and speech rights through judicial intervention.
Article 27, 31, 39, 42 of the Constitution
Writ Types
Habeas Corpus, Mandamus, Prohibition, Certiorari, Quo Warranto.
Article 102(2) of the Constitution
Real Estate
Challenged RAJUK eviction and notices issued without due representation.
SBARRO Banani & Gulshan cases
Employment
Protected promotional rights and ensured fair selection processes for statutory employees.
2CLR (HCD) 523
Power & Energy
Resolved disputes over gas connections and electricity compliance.
Titas Gas cases
Taxation
Challenged VAT demands and customs exemptions.
65 DLR (2013) 97, 17 BLC (HC) 188
Banking
Resolved disputes involving CIB classifications, forex matters, and auction challenges.
Judicial review and writ petitions play a crucial role in ensuring accountability, fairness, and the protection of fundamental rights in Bangladesh. At TRW Law Firm, our advocates bring unmatched expertise in navigating the complexities of these cases, delivering justice for our clients across various sectors.
If you require assistance with filing a writ petition or need legal representation in matters involving judicial review, please contact TRW Law Firm.
বাংলাদেশে প্রাইভেট লিমিটিড কোম্পানি গঠন: একটি সমন্বিত দিকনির্দেশিকা
প্রাইভেট লিমিটিড কোম্পানি গঠন
বাংলাদেশে বাণিজ্যিক কর্মকাণ্ডে প্রাইভেট লিমিটেড কোম্পানির ভূমিকা অনস্বীকার্য। এটি একটি অত্যন্ত জনপ্রিয় ব্যবসায়িক কাঠামো, কারণ এটি সীমিত দায় এবং কর্পোরেট সুবিধা প্রদান করে। প্রাইভেট লিমিটেড কোম্পানি গঠন সহজ, তবে এতে নির্দিষ্ট প্রক্রিয়া ও নীতিমালা মেনে চলা আবশ্যক।
এই নিবন্ধে প্রাইভেট লিমিটেড কোম্পানি গঠনের ধাপগুলো এবং প্রয়োজনীয় তথ্য নিয়ে বিস্তারিত আলোচনা করা হবে। এছাড়াও, TRW Law Firm এর দক্ষতাসম্পন্ন আইনজীবীদের থেকে কীভাবে এই প্রক্রিয়ায় সহযোগিতা পাওয়া যাবে, সে বিষয়ে আলোকপাত করা হবে।
প্রাইভেট লিমিটেড কোম্পানির বৈশিষ্ট্য
সর্বনিম্ন ২ জন এবং অনাধিক ৫০ জন সদস্য নিয়ে কোম্পানি গঠন করা যায়।
সীমিত মূলধনে কোম্পানি গঠন করা সম্ভব।
মালিকদের দায় সীমিত, যা ব্যক্তিগত সম্পদের সুরক্ষা নিশ্চিত করে।
শেয়ার হস্তান্তরের ক্ষেত্রে সীমাবদ্ধতা রয়েছে।
কর্পোরেট কাঠামোর আওতায় পরিচালনা এবং সুশৃঙ্খল ব্যবস্থাপনা।
প্রাইভেট লিমিটেড কোম্পানি গঠনের ধাপসমূহ
ধাপ–১: নামের ছাড়পত্র (Name Clearance)
প্রাইভেট লিমিটেড কোম্পানি গঠনের প্রথম ধাপ হলো কোম্পানির জন্য একটি নাম ঠিক করা। নাম নিবন্ধনের জন্য RJSC (Registrar of Joint Stock Companies and Firms) এর ওয়েবসাইটে অ্যাকাউন্ট খুলতে হবে। প্রয়োজনীয় তথ্য জমা দিয়ে নাম ক্লিয়ারেন্সের জন্য আবেদন করতে হবে। নাম ক্লিয়ারেন্স পেতে সাধারণত ২-৩ কার্যদিবস সময় লাগে।
ফি:
সরকারি ফি: ২০০ টাকা
ভ্যাট: ৩০ টাকা
ডকুমেন্টস:
আবেদনকারীর নাম ও ঠিকানা
প্রস্তাবিত কোম্পানির নাম
আবেদন ফি জমার রশিদ
ধাপ–২: মেমোরেন্ডাম অব এসোসিয়েশন (Memorandum of Association – MOA)
মেমোরেন্ডাম অব এসোসিয়েশন একটি কোম্পানির উদ্দেশ্য ও কার্যক্রম নির্ধারণ করে। এতে কোম্পানির নাম, অফিসের ঠিকানা, এবং ব্যবসার মূল লক্ষ্য উল্লেখ থাকে। বিশেষ ব্যবসার ক্ষেত্রে (যেমন ব্যাংকিং, শিক্ষা, হাসপাতাল) সংশ্লিষ্ট কর্তৃপক্ষের অনুমোদন আবশ্যক।
ধাপ–৩: আর্টিকেল অব এসোসিয়েশন (Articles of Association – AOA)
আর্টিকেল অব এসোসিয়েশন হলো কোম্পানির সংবিধান। এতে কোম্পানির পরিচালনার নীতিমালা ও নিয়মাবলি লিপিবদ্ধ থাকে। বিষয়সমূহ:
শেয়ারের হস্তান্তর নীতিমালা
পরিচালকদের ক্ষমতা ও দায়িত্ব
কোরাম নির্ধারণ
কোম্পানি অবসায়নের প্রক্রিয়া
ধাপ–৪: RJSC এর রেজিস্ট্রিকরণ
RJSC এর ওয়েবসাইটে মেমোরেন্ডাম ও আর্টিকেল অব এসোসিয়েশন এবং অন্যান্য প্রয়োজনীয় কাগজপত্র জমা দিয়ে রেজিস্ট্রেশনের জন্য আবেদন করতে হবে। প্রয়োজনীয় ডকুমেন্টস:
MOA এবং AOA এর কপি
পরিচালকদের তথ্য (নাম, পরিচয়পত্র, ঠিকানা)
শেয়ার হোল্ডারদের ছবি
ফি নির্ধারণ: রেজিস্ট্রেশন ফি কোম্পানির অনুমোদিত মূলধনের ওপর নির্ভর করে। উদাহরণস্বরূপ, অনুমোদিত মূলধন ৫০ লক্ষ টাকা হলে ফি হবে ১৩,৫৭০ টাকা (ভ্যাটসহ)।
ধাপ–৫: ইনকর্পোরেশন সার্টিফিকেট (Certificate of Incorporation)
RJSC কর্তৃক সকল তথ্য যাচাই-বাছাই শেষে ইনকর্পোরেশন সার্টিফিকেট ইস্যু করা হয়। এটি কোম্পানির আইনত অস্তিত্বের প্রমাণপত্র।
ধাপ–৬: টি.আই.এন (Tax Identification Number – TIN)
ইনকর্পোরেশন সার্টিফিকেট পাওয়ার পর জাতীয় রাজস্ব বোর্ডের (NBR) মাধ্যমে কোম্পানির জন্য TIN নম্বর সংগ্রহ করতে হবে। TIN নম্বর কর-সংক্রান্ত দায়িত্ব পালনে অপরিহার্য।
ধাপ–৭: ট্রেড লাইসেন্স
কোম্পানি পরিচালনার জন্য সংশ্লিষ্ট সিটি কর্পোরেশন বা পৌরসভা থেকে ট্রেড লাইসেন্স সংগ্রহ করতে হয়। প্রয়োজনীয় ডকুমেন্টস:
ইনকর্পোরেশন সার্টিফিকেট
MOA এবং AOA এর কপি
পরিচালকের ছবি
অফিস ভাড়ার চুক্তিনামা
ধাপ–৮: ব্যাংক অ্যাকাউন্ট খোলা
কোম্পানির নামে একটি ব্যাংক অ্যাকাউন্ট খোলা প্রয়োজন। প্রয়োজনীয় ডকুমেন্টস:
ইনকর্পোরেশন সার্টিফিকেট
MOA এবং AOA এর কপি
পরিচালকদের পরিচয়পত্র
নাম ক্লিয়ারেন্স সনদ
TRW Law Firm এর ভূমিকা
TRW Law Firm বাংলাদেশে প্রাইভেট লিমিটেড কোম্পানি গঠনের প্রতিটি ধাপে পেশাদার আইনগত সহায়তা প্রদান করে। পরিসেবা:
নাম নিবন্ধন এবং ক্লিয়ারেন্স
MOA এবং AOA প্রস্তুতকরণ
RJSC রেজিস্ট্রেশন
ট্রেড লাইসেন্স এবং TIN সংগ্রহ
TRW Law Firm নিশ্চিত করে যে প্রাইভেট লিমিটেড কোম্পানি গঠনের প্রক্রিয়া সহজ, নির্ভুল এবং সময়সাশ্রয়ী।
প্রাইভেট লিমিটেড কোম্পানি গঠন ব্যবসায়িক সাফল্যের জন্য একটি গুরুত্বপূর্ণ পদক্ষেপ। সঠিক প্রক্রিয়া অনুসরণ এবং TRW Law Firm এর সহযোগিতা নিশ্চিত করতে পারে কোম্পানির স্থায়িত্ব ও সফলতা।
সংক্ষিপ্ত নির্দেশিকা টেবিল
ধাপ
বিবরণ
প্রয়োজনীয় ডকুমেন্টস
ফি
সময়সীমা
১
নামের ছাড়পত্র
আবেদন ফি, নাম প্রস্তাব
২৩০ টাকা
২-৩ দিন
২
MOA প্রস্তুত
কোম্পানির উদ্দেশ্য
–
–
৩
AOA প্রস্তুত
পরিচালনার নীতিমালা
–
–
৪
RJSC রেজিস্ট্রেশন
MOA, AOA, পরিচালকদের তথ্য
মূলধনের ওপর নির্ভরশীল
৫-৭ দিন
৫
ইনকর্পোরেশন সার্টিফিকেট
RJSC যাচাই
–
৭-১০ দিন
৬
TIN সংগ্রহ
ইনকর্পোরেশন সার্টিফিকেট
–
৩-৫ দিন
৭
ট্রেড লাইসেন্স
অফিস ঠিকানা, TIN
–
৩-৪ দিন
৮
ব্যাংক অ্যাকাউন্ট
MOA, AOA, ইনকর্পোরেশন
–
২-৩ দিন
TRW Law Firm এর অভিজ্ঞ আইনজীবীদের সহায়তায় ব্যবসায়িক পরিকল্পনা বাস্তবায়ন করুন এবং নিশ্চিত করুন আপনার কোম্পানির নিরবচ্ছিন্ন কার্যক্রম।
Land law in Bangladesh encompasses the legal principles and frameworks governing ownership, transfer, acquisition, and resettlement involving immovable property. These laws are critical for managing land rights, particularly in a densely populated country like Bangladesh, where land disputes are common. This article delves into the key legislative and policy frameworks, focusing on the Acquisition and Requisition of Immovable Property Ordinance of 1982, resettlement policies, and the socio-economic impact of land-related laws, while contextualizing these with a holistic approach to international and local standards.
Legal Framework for Land Acquisition in Bangladesh
The Acquisition and Requisition of Immovable Property Ordinance of 1982 is the cornerstone legislation for land acquisition in Bangladesh. Amended multiple times, it provides the legal basis for acquiring land for public purposes, ensuring safeguards for landowners and stipulating fair compensation. However, several gaps and limitations exist:
Exclusion of Non-Titled Persons: The law does not cover informal settlers, squatters, or tenants without documentation, leaving them vulnerable during land acquisition.
Underestimation of Market Value: Compensation is determined based on the registered value of land transactions, which is often undervalued due to tax evasion practices.
Lack of Resettlement Provisions: The law does not mandate resettlement assistance, transitional allowances, or livelihood restoration for displaced persons.
Process of Land Acquisition
The Deputy Commissioner (DC) oversees land acquisition, determining compensation based on the following criteria:
Market Value Assessment: Compensation includes a 50% premium on the registered value but often falls short of the actual market value.
Proof of Ownership: Landowners must produce a record of rights (RoR) under the State Acquisition and Tenancy Act of 1950, which may not always be updated.
The State Acquisition and Tenancy Act of 1950
This Act governs land ownership and tenancy in Bangladesh. Key features include:
Ceiling on Land Ownership: Limits the amount of land a single individual can own.
Rights of Sharecroppers: Protects tenant farmers, granting them specific rights and protection against eviction.
Land Records: Establishes procedures for maintaining accurate land ownership records, critical for proving ownership during acquisition processes.
National Policies on Resettlement
To address gaps in the 1982 Ordinance, Bangladesh has developed national policies, with support from international agencies. Key principles include:
Respect for Displaced Persons’ Rights: All displaced individuals, irrespective of legal title, should be treated with dignity and provided compensation.
Livelihood Restoration: Displaced persons should have opportunities to restore or improve their pre-displacement living standards.
Gender Equality: Policies emphasize gender equity throughout the resettlement process.
The Padma Multipurpose Bridge Project Land Acquisition Act of 2009
This Act was designed to address specific challenges in large infrastructure projects. Notable provisions include:
Resettlement Framework:
Mandates the preparation of Resettlement Action Plans (RAPs) for affected communities.International and Holistic Standards in Land Acquisition
Enhanced Compensation:
Acknowledges the gap between market value and compensation provided under the 1982 Ordinance.
Special Provisions for Vulnerable Groups:
Provides for livelihood restoration and relocation support.
Core Principles from Global Best Practices
Taking a holistic approach involves integrating global standards, such as those outlined by the United Nations and development agencies, alongside Bangladesh’s national priorities. Key considerations include:
Avoiding Resettlement: Displacement should be minimized through alternative project designs.
Compensation Based on Replacement Costs: Ensuring compensation reflects full replacement value, including transaction costs and lost opportunities.
Comprehensive Resettlement Action Plans (RAPs): RAPs must involve affected communities in planning and implementation.
Sustainability: Resettlement must enhance long-term socio-economic stability, not merely address immediate needs.
Addressing Gaps in Local Policies
Aspect
Bangladesh Law
Holistic Approach
Action Taken
Compensation for Non-Titled Persons
Not specified
Inclusion of all affected groups
Compensation for structures and relocation grants
Full Replacement Cost
Based on registered value, often undervalued
Reflects market value and additional costs
Market price assessment via independent committees
Resettlement Action Plan (RAP)
Not mandatory
Community-driven and mandatory
RAP prepared and disclosed for large projects
Key Legislative Developments
The Padma Multipurpose Bridge Project Land Acquisition Act of 2009 and the Dhaka Elevated Expressway Project Land Acquisition Act of 2011 provide specific guidelines for large-scale infrastructure projects. These acts incorporate elements of global standards, such as compensation for non-titled persons and detailed RAPs, enhancing alignment with a holistic approach.
Socio-Economic Impact of Land Laws
Land acquisition laws significantly impact communities, particularly vulnerable groups such as women, indigenous populations, and the landless. The absence of adequate resettlement provisions exacerbates poverty and social inequality. To mitigate these effects, government projects have begun incorporating livelihood restoration programs, skill training, and employment opportunities for displaced persons.
Challenges and Recommendations
Challenges
Inadequate Compensation: Compensation often fails to reflect market realities, leaving affected persons worse off.
Bureaucratic Delays: Lengthy administrative processes hinder timely compensation and resettlement.
Displacement of Vulnerable Groups: Non-titled persons face significant challenges in asserting their rights.
Recommendations
Reforming Compensation Mechanisms: Establish an independent valuation body to ensure market-aligned compensation.
Strengthening Legal Protections: Extend legal coverage to non-titled persons and informal settlers.
Community Engagement: Foster greater participation from affected communities in the planning and implementation of resettlement plans.
Capacity Building: Train local government officials on international best practices in resettlement planning.
Land law in Bangladesh is evolving to address the complex challenges of urbanization and infrastructure development. While the 1982 Ordinance provides a foundational framework, its limitations necessitate supplemental policies and alignment with a holistic approach. By bridging legislative gaps and adopting global best practices, TRW Law Firm is well-positioned to assist clients in navigating these complexities, ensuring compliance with legal frameworks, and advocating for equitable solutions.
Comparative Analysis of Land Acquisition Policies
Criteria
1982 Ordinance
National Resettlement Policy
Holistic Approach
Coverage of Non-Titled Persons
Excluded
Included
Inclusive of all affected groups
Compensation Basis
Registered Value
Market Value
Full Replacement Cost
RAP Requirement
Not Mandatory
Encouraged
Community-Driven and Mandatory
Livelihood Restoration
Not Addressed
Addressed
Comprehensive and Long-Term
Public Consultation
Limited
Encouraged
Required and Transparent
By bridging legislative gaps and advocating for rights, TRW Law Firm plays a pivotal role in shaping equitable land laws in Bangladesh.
At TRW Law Firm, we take immense pride in our team of highly skilled advocates in Financial Crimes and Negligence law and other diverse legal matters regarding White Collar Financial matters we have successfully handled. Our advising team comprises:
☑ One Advocate enrolled in the Appellate Division. ☑ Three Advocates enrolled in the High Court. ☑ Six Advocates enrolled in the District Court.
This robust team enables us to address complex legal challenges across multiple jurisdictions. Below, we detail our notable accomplishments across various legal domains.
Financial Crimes
☑ Fraudulent Misappropriation: We brought a criminal proceeding against a supplier for misappropriation of payments involving a Japanese construction project. ☑ Food Safety Act Case: Successfully handled a case under the Food Safety Act, 2013, involving KB Foods Ltd of Khan Bahadur Group, culminating in quashment proceedings before the High Court Division. ☑ Fraud Investigation for Garments Industry: Assisted a leading garments company in investigating and prosecuting fraud involving misappropriation, forgery, and deception in a major financial dispute. ☑ Cheque Dishonor Cases: Successfully represented clients in numerous cases under the Negotiable Instruments Act and Penal Code for cheque dishonor. ☑ Employee Fraud: Brought legal proceedings against a former employee of a major Japanese investor for misappropriation, fraud, and forgery. ☑ Money Laundering Case: Successfully handled a high-profile money laundering case for the Central Bank of Bangladesh.
Investigation
☑ Fraud Investigation Practice Group: We have established a strong practice group composed of consultants with significant expertise in fraud investigations. Thorough investigations are crucial to the success of any fraud case. Criminal cases require a high standard of proof, which necessitates multiple sources of evidence, including documentary and real evidence.
In Milon and Ors. vs. The State, the court provided guidance on the admissibility of confessional statements in criminal cases. The judicial confession before the magistrate was deemed voluntary as the accused was warned of the consequences, given sufficient time to consider, and allowed privacy to reflect on their decision. This judgment highlights the importance of procedural adherence in investigations.
Trial
Criminal trials, tortious legal proceedings, and defamation trials require steady and continuous legal support over several years. Our dispute resolution department lawyers regularly attend courts ranging from the High Court to district and magistrate courts, as well as tribunals, to manage procedural steps and conduct hearings. Our in-house support teams—including Supreme Court, district court, and consultancy teams—coordinate with clients and other professionals to manage drafting, investigation, and document collection.
Appeal/Revision
Appeals and revisions arise out of orders or judgments. Depending on the seriousness of the matter and parties involved, disadvantaged parties often pursue every available legal avenue. Our dedicated department, supported by branches across multiple geographic locations, ensures swift action within the shortest possible timeframe.
Negligence Cases
☑ Public Nuisance: Represented a client in a public nuisance case involving the disruptive behavior of large dogs in an apartment complex. ☑ Resort Liability: Defended a renowned resort in a case involving physical injury caused by the misuse of a golf cart (buggy) on hilly terrain, addressing contributory negligence and contractual liability. ☑ Medical Negligence: Advised on a case of gross medical negligence under the Medical and Dental Council Act, Consumer Rights Act, and Penal Code. ☑ Maritime Negligence: Litigated cases involving loss and damage to cargo due to negligent operation by ship masters, crew, and stevedores. ☑ Workplace Accidents: Handled a labor case involving compensation for the death of a garment worker due to machinery operation, addressing employer negligence. ☑ Tourism Industry Injuries: Provided legal advice on personal injuries caused by equipment failures in the tourism sector. ☑ Rana Plaza Collapse: Represented clients in the Rana Plaza collapse case, advocating for compensation for losses due to negligent construction and maintenance.
Defamation Cases
☑ Indian Poultry Investor: Successfully advised a major foreign investor in the poultry sector on libel issues. ☑ Financial Institution Defense: Defended a leading financial institution in a libel claim filed in District Court. ☑ Garments Industry Dispute: Handled a defamation case against a former employee of a major German investor in the garments sector.
Negotiable Instruments Cases
☑ Cheque Dishonor Proceedings: Successfully represented clients in cases involving dishonor of cheques, recovering due amounts and securing convictions when necessary. We have also defended clients in similar cases, ensuring fair outcomes.
Conclusion
TRW Law Firm remains committed to delivering exceptional legal services across a wide spectrum of practice areas. Our team’s expertise and dedication ensure successful outcomes for our clients, whether addressing complex corporate disputes, criminal cases, or civil matters. If you require reliable legal representation or advice, TRW Law Firm is your trusted partner.
