Govt plans rules, salary structure for imams: Commerce Minister

The government of Bangladesh is planning to introduce a formal framework for the appointment of mosque imams and determine a structured salary system for them, Commerce, Industries, Textiles and Jute Minister Khandaker Abdul Muktadir said on Monday.

The minister made the announcement while speaking as the chief guest at a programme organised by Sylhet City Corporation to distribute honorariums among imams serving in different mosques across the city.

Khandaker Abdul Muktadir said the government intends to establish a state-recognised set of guidelines governing the recruitment and removal of imams.

According to him, such rules will ensure that imams cannot be dismissed arbitrarily and that their professional roles are protected under a transparent system.

He also highlighted the need to ensure financial security for imams, saying their honorariums should be sufficient to support a family of four to six members.

The government aims to gradually develop a salary structure that reflects this objective, he added.

The minister noted that the issue had already been raised by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman before the last election, indicating the government’s commitment to improving the welfare and recognition of religious leaders.

Describing imams as highly respected members of society, Khandaker Abdul Muktadir said the government considers them important contributors to social harmony and moral guidance. As a gesture of respect, a small honorarium was distributed to imams through the city corporation administration during the programme.

He further said the government plans to involve imams in local monitoring committees to enhance transparency and accountability in development projects.

Their participation, he added, would help strengthen public engagement and oversight at the grassroots level.

The minister also expressed optimism about the future development of Sylhet, saying initiatives are underway to improve infrastructure, upgrade roads and enhance urban facilities.

Presided over by Abdul Quiyum Choudhury, the programme was attended by several officials, including Divisional Commissioner Khan Md Reza-un-Nabi and Chief Executive Officer of the city corporation Rezai Rafin Sarkar, among others.