Inquiry launched into biased BCS recruitment during AL regime

State Minister for Public Administration Md Abdul Bari has said that the government has launched an investigation into allegations of corruption and political bias in the recruitment of Bangladesh Civil Service (BCS) cadres during the tenure of the previous Awami League government.

He made the statement in the Jatiya Sangsad on Thursday during the question-and-answer session of the ongoing parliamentary sitting. The session was presided over by Deputy Speaker Kayser Kamal.

Responding to a written question from Pabna-5 lawmaker Md Shamsur Rahman Shimul Biswas, the state minister said that the Anti-Corruption Commission, along with other relevant law enforcement agencies, is currently conducting a detailed inquiry into the allegations.

He noted that over the past 16 years, various administrative actions were taken against a number of BCS officers. According to the data presented, 12 officials from the administration cadre were sent into compulsory retirement, 39 were dismissed from service, and as many as 564 officers were made Officers on Special Duty (OSD).

The state minister said these figures have raised concerns about possible irregularities and politically motivated decisions in the civil service during that period.

He further said that the ongoing investigation is examining claims of favouritism, corruption, and lack of transparency in recruitment processes.

Md Abdul Bari assured the Parliament that appropriate steps will be taken once the investigation is completed.

“Necessary actions will be taken based on the findings and recommendations of the probe,” he said.

The government is committed to ensuring fairness, accountability, and professionalism in public administration, particularly in the recruitment and management of BCS cadres, he added.