Under the leadership of Chairman Md. Sohrab Hossain, who was appointed during the previous Awami League government, the Public Service Commission (PSC) has faced a series of scandals, question paper leaks, and irregularities, leading to a crisis of trust in the institution. Among the youth, job seekers, and students, there has been growing dissatisfaction. Sohrab Hossain and the members of the commission were allegedly involved in a massive corruption scandal, reportedly sharing 600 crore taka in bribes, which led to the suspension of non-cadre recruitment in the BCS exams. As a result, no non-cadre posts were offered in the 46th BCS exam.

Question Paper Leaks: A Major Loss of Trust

There were allegations of question paper leaks in the 46th BCS and other recruitment exams, with several senior PSC officials, including 17 individuals, being arrested by the CID. Despite this, the PSC claimed that its internal investigation found no proof of the leaks, which only added to public frustration and disbelief.

Delays and Corruption Allegations

During Sohrab Hossain’s tenure, the 41st BCS recruitment took over five years to complete, setting a record for the longest delay. Job seekers repeatedly staged protests and human chains due to accusations of nepotism and delays in non-cadre recruitment.

PSC: A Safe Haven for Party Loyalists?

Among the members of the commission were individuals with direct connections to the Awami League, including former bureaucrats, members of the party’s subcommittees, and even controversial figures. Questions have arisen about whether this constitutional institution has become a refuge for political loyalists.

Public Demand: Immediate Restructuring of the Commission

Students staged a human chain at the base of Rajuk’s statue at Dhaka University, demanding the immediate removal of Chairman Md. Sohrab Hossain and the formation of a new, independent, transparent, and accountable PSC.

Interim Government’s Stance

The office of Dr. Yunus, who oversees the Ministry of Public Administration in the interim government, has confirmed that the full restructuring of the PSC will begin soon, and qualified individuals will be appointed to the commission.