A group of NGO leaders, in a meeting with the Minister for Commerce Mr. GM Quader on 09 January, reiterated that updating the Societies Registration Act of 1860 would meet the changing needs of the NGOs instead of a new law. They said the existing laws fulfill the needs of the NGOs giving them space to work with innovative programs. Updating a few clauses, however, may be necessary for making the rules more NGO friendly considering the expansion and addition of new programs in the sector. They urged upon the Minister to share the draft law with the stakeholders.

The Minister gave a firm assurance that views of the NGOs would certainly be taken on the draft law before it is finalised. The NGO Federation, Nijera Kori, BELA, Manusher Jonno and TIB took part in the discussion.