Bangladesh, May 17 -- Economists, researchers, labour leaders and civil society representatives have urged the government to adopt a more inclusive and citizen-focused national budget, warning that rising inflation, unemployment, higher VAT rates and growing debt burdens are placing increasing pressure on ordinary citizens.

The call was made during a day-long dialogue titled "People's Budget Parliament 2026", organised by the Democratic Budget Movement (DBM) at the Liberation War Museum auditorium in Agargaon, Dhaka.

Speakers highlighted that low- and middle-income groups are the most affected by persistent inflation, rising food and fuel prices, higher utility tariffs and shrinking employment opportunities.

They also expressed concern...