Job Seekers Issue 11-Point Demand for PSC Reform, 48-Hour Ultimatum Given

In a fresh call for transparency and accountability in government recruitment, a group of job seekers has issued an 11-point demand to reform the Bangladesh Public Service Commission (PSC). The demands were presented during a press conference held on Saturday in front of the Dhaka University Central Library under the banner of PSC Reform Movement.

The protesters stated that the nationwide movement that gained momentum in July last year was driven by frustration over the lack of merit-based and transparent recruitment in the public sector. Despite over a year passing, they claimed that no substantial progress had been made, prompting them to relaunch their campaign.

“We want jobs based on merit. Reforms are essential to ensure that the PSC is impartial and accountable. If our demands are implemented, people will regain trust in the recruitment process,” said one of the protest leaders.

The 11-Point Demand List:

1. Re-evaluate the 44th BCS final results, which they claim were inconsistent, and republish a corrected version.
2. Reschedule the 48th Special BCS (Health) within a logical timeframe and raise the age limit for medical candidates to 34. Allow at least four months of preparation time for the 47th BCS written exam.
3. Punish those involved in question leaks during the 46th BCS preliminary exam and ensure the exam is not cancelled.
4. Amend or revoke the Non-Cadre Rule 2023 and ensure all candidates who pass the viva voce are offered jobs.
5. Increase the viva voce marks to 100 from the 45th BCS onwards, introduce the option to apply for re-evaluation of written scripts, and institutionalize this as a permanent policy.
6. Form a judicial inquiry committee to ensure transparency, neutrality, and credibility of the PSC.
7. Allow candidates to resubmit their cadre preferences online before the viva voce.
8. Ensure transparency by publishing preliminary exam scores with results, and written and viva marks with the final result.
9. No obstacles should be placed in gazette publication for recommended candidates unless convicted of a criminal or treasonous offense.
10. Ensure transparency in appointing PSC members by consulting experts and stakeholders.
11. Evaluate written exam scripts within the commission premises to ensure speed, security, and impartiality.

The protesters warned that if the government does not take concrete steps to address their demands within 48 hours, they will escalate the movement with intensified nationwide protests.

“This is not a political movement; this is a fight for fair opportunity,” one student declared.

As of now, the government and PSC have not issued an official response to the demands. However, the growing discontent among highly qualified youth signals a rising pressure on authorities to reform the decades-old recruitment process.