Public Administration Minister Farhad Hossain disclosed today that 3.70 lakh positions out of 19.151 lakh government jobs are currently unfilled. He shared this information during a discussion organized by the Bangladesh Secretariat Reporters Forum (BSRF).

Addressing a query regarding the underrepresentation of women in the Bangladesh Civil Service (BCS), the minister highlighted that 11 out of 84 secretaries are women. Additionally, there are 658 senior assistant secretaries, seven female deputy commissioners, 151 female UNOs, and 88 female AC land officers.

“We are making strides in women empowerment, with women comprising 29 percent of government job holders,” he emphasized.

In response to a question about allegations against 351 government officials from grade-1 to grade-9 over the past decade, Farhad Hossain revealed that 41 officials received severe punishment and 140 received light punishment. Overall, 181 officials were penalized, while 170 were discharged.

Addressing concerns about the adherence to policy in promotions, the minister reassured, “Promotions and postings are conducted in accordance with established policies. We have a structured system in place. Various factors such as officers studying abroad under government scholarships, assignments in embassies abroad, and health issues of some officers are all taken into consideration.”