Dhaka, Feb 25 (V7N) – The Appellate Division of the Supreme Court has ordered the reinstatement of 85 upazila election officers who were dismissed during the caretaker government 18 years ago.

A bench led by Chief Justice Syed Refaat Ahmed delivered the verdict on Tuesday (February 25), directing authorities to reinstate the officers and provide all due benefits as per service rules.

Legal Battle Ends After 18 Years

The legal dispute began when 85 out of 327 upazila election officers, appointed in 2005, were dismissed following an evaluation test conducted by the caretaker government in 2007. This decision led to a prolonged legal battle that has finally been resolved after nearly two decades.

Earlier, on February 20, the Appellate Division had set February 25 as the date for the final verdict on whether the dismissed officials could return to their positions.

Background of the Controversy

  • In September 2005, the Public Service Commission (PSC) appointed 327 individuals as upazila election officers under the BNP-Jamaat alliance government.
  • Allegations of irregularities in recruitment led the caretaker government in 2007 to conduct a re-evaluation test for these officers.
  • As a result, 85 officers were dismissed on September 3, 2007, leading them to file legal challenges.

With this ruling, these officials are now set to regain their jobs and receive all entitled benefits, marking the end of an 18-year-long fight for justice.

END/MSS/AJ