Depositors of Sammilito Islami Bank can now withdraw up to Tk10 lakh

Depositors of Sammilito Islami Bank will now be allowed to withdraw up to Tk10 lakh from their deposits for emergency needs, in addition to medical treatment.

Previously, the facility was available only for a depositor's own medical expenses. Under the revised scheme, depositors will also be able to withdraw funds for the medical treatment of their parents, children, siblings and spouses, as well as for other urgent requirements.

The decision was taken at a meeting of the Bangladesh Bank Board of Directors on Wednesday, chaired by Governor Mostaqur Rahman.

The revised facility will apply to customers of First Security Islami Bank, Social Islami Bank, Union Bank, Global Islami Bank and EXIM Bank.

According to sources familiar with the meeting, Bangladesh Bank amended its previously announced deposit repayment scheme to broaden the scope of withdrawals beyond personal medical expenses, placing particular emphasis on the treatment needs of family members.

A Bangladesh Bank official said many depositors require access to their savings for unforeseen circumstances other than their own medical treatment, including the healthcare costs of family members and other urgent household expenses.

“The amendment was introduced to address those needs,” he added.

Last year, the interim government merged the five crisis-hit Shariah-based banks to form Sammilito Islami Bank.