Dhaka, Dec 10 (V7N)- A high-level committee of the Ministry of Public Administration has recommended appointing 754 government officials, who faced discrimination and deprivation during the Awami League administration, to higher ranks as a form of redress.

Key Recommendations

The committee proposed the following measures:

  • 119 retired officials to be promoted to the rank of Secretary.
  • 41 serving officials to be elevated to the rank of Secretary.
  • 528 officials to be promoted to the rank of Additional Secretary.

The recommendations include granting privileges and benefits retroactively for the period between January 2009 and August 4, 2024, aiming to compensate for lost opportunities due to alleged harassment and discrimination.

Submission to the Chief Advisor

The five-member committee, chaired by a senior official from the Ministry of Public Administration, is expected to submit its report to the Chief Advisor today.

Committee to Determine Compensation

A separate committee, headed by former Finance Secretary Zakir Ahmed Khan, has been tasked with formulating detailed plans for compensating the losses suffered by the affected officials. This committee includes representatives from the Finance Department, Cabinet Department, Ministry of Law, and additional secretaries from the Ministry of Public Administration.

The committee has been given a three-month deadline to deliver its recommendations. The Ministry of Public Administration will provide secretarial and logistical support to facilitate the process.

Implications

If approved, this initiative will address long-standing grievances among the bureaucratic cadre, potentially restoring trust and morale within the public administration. It reflects the interim government’s commitment to rectifying past injustices and fostering an equitable governance environment.

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