Will Bangladesh Employees Ramp Up Protests Over Service Ordinance Law?
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Synopsis
In a renewed wave of protests, Bangladeshi employees at the Secretariat are rallying against the Government Service (Amendment) Ordinance. Their demands include the ordinance's repeal and enhanced dearness allowances, with threats to escalate actions if ignored. The protests reflect widespread discontent with the interim government's policies and the perceived injustices of the law.
Key Takeaways
- Protests against the Government Service (Amendment) Ordinance are intensifying in Bangladesh.
- Employees are demanding a repeal of the ordinance and better allowances.
- Concerns about harassment under the ordinance are being raised by officials.
- Mass rallies may be organized if demands are not met.
- Dialogue between government and employees is essential for resolution.
Dhaka, June 19 (NationPress) A group of officials and employees at the Secretariat in Bangladesh reignited their protests on Thursday, insisting on the abolition of the contentious "black law" — the Government Service (Amendment) Ordinance, introduced by the interim administration under Muhammad Yunus, as reported by local media.
The demonstrations saw a resurgence last month when numerous employees from different ministries and divisions gathered at the Secretariat in Dhaka, calling for the ordinance's revocation.
On Thursday, the protest organized by the Bangladesh Secretariat Officers and Employees Unity Forum warned of escalating their actions if their grievances remain unaddressed.
Co-chairmen Badiul Kabir and Nurul Islam, along with several members of the forum, were prominent figures in the demonstration.
"We demand the repeal of this black law. Additionally, we call for a 50 percent dearness allowance and the dismissal of officials who engage in fascist practices," reported the Bangladeshi daily Dhaka Tribune, quoting Nurul Islam.
"Our movement will persist until this ordinance is entirely repealed," stated Babul Kabir.
Earlier this week, the forum announced plans for a mass rally at the Secretariat's Badamtala if the government fails to annul the ordinance.
The forum's secretary-general, Mujahidul Islam Selim, questioned the interim government's legal advisor, Asif Nazrul, remarking, "The advisor claimed he was abroad when the law was passed, suggesting that had he been present, the ordinance would not have been approved."
"We are not thugs. We are not the type to take to the streets and shout slogans. Why provoke us?" he inquired.
During a media briefing at the Secretariat on Monday, Nazrul mentioned that through this ordinance, government employees might become "victims of harassment," adding that there is "scope for reconsideration" of certain aspects.
"There is definitely room for reconsideration of the Public Service Ordinance. I was abroad at the time. I was not directly involved in the law's formulation. Later, upon reviewing the law, I recognized that there were areas for potential reconsideration. The government did not enact this law for malicious purposes. However, those affected by the law may encounter difficulties or harassment," the legal advisor clarified.
"I acknowledge that such a possibility exists. This law was created by the Ministry of Public Administration. Any ordinance is issued through the law ministry. However, the ministry did not author this," he added.
Following the Council of Advisors' approval of the draft law on May 22, during a meeting of the interim administration's advisory council, government employees began protesting at the Secretariat, denouncing the law as unfair and unconstitutional.
Reports indicate that under the provisions of the amended ordinance, if government officials are disobedient, absent without leave, or hinder others from performing their duties, it will be deemed a punishable offense, leading to demotion, removal, or dismissal.
Point of View
It is essential to balance the voices of government employees demanding justice with the need for governance. While protests are a vital aspect of democracy, we must also consider the broader implications of such ordinances on public service and governance efficiency. The situation calls for dialogue and a reassessment of policies to ensure both accountability and fairness.
NationPress
19/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Government Service (Amendment) Ordinance?
The Government Service (Amendment) Ordinance is a law enacted by the interim government in Bangladesh that has been criticized as unjust and unconstitutional, prompting widespread protests among government employees.
What are the main demands of the protesting employees?
The protesting employees are demanding the repeal of the ordinance, a 50 percent dearness allowance, and the removal of officials involved in perceived fascist practices.
What actions are being threatened by the protestors?
The protestors have threatened to escalate their actions if their demands are not met, including plans for mass rallies.
Who are the main organizers of the protests?
The protests are organized primarily by the Bangladesh Secretariat Officers and Employees Unity Forum, which includes key figures like co-chairmen Badiul Kabir and Nurul Islam.
What is the government's stance on the ordinance?
The government acknowledges the potential for harassment under the ordinance and has indicated that there is scope for reconsideration of its provisions.
