44th BCS Trapped by Rule Amendments, 1,690 Candidates Left in Uncertainty

After a prolonged wait of three years and seven months, the final results of the 44th Bangladesh Civil Service (BCS) examination were published on 30 June, with the Public Service Commission (PSC) recommending 1,690 candidates for cadre positions. However, due to complications related to repeat and lower cadre issues, around 400 candidates are unwilling to join the new posts, raising concerns over vacant positions.

Following the publication of the results, news that some positions might remain unfilled and no fresh recommendations would be made sparked severe criticism of the PSC. To mitigate the controversy, the Commission initiated rule amendments, allowing non-cadre candidates to be recommended based on merit for repeat cadre positions.

Despite the amendments, more than two and a half months have passed without the final results being republished. Consequently, the recommended candidates are enduring prolonged uncertainty. They report that even after two months and eighteen days since the results were announced, no gazette notification has been issued, nor have subsequent processes commenced.

According to PSC sources, the proposed rule amendments were sent to the Ministry of Public Administration on 9 July, approved during the last week of July, and returned to the PSC through the Secretary Committee on 9 August. However, since no PSC commission meeting has taken place, the republication of results and subsequent verification processes remain suspended.

Frustrated by the lack of additional posts in the 44th BCS, candidates have taken to protests. Demonstrations have included memoranda, human chains, rallies, and even hunger strikes at the foot of the Raju sculpture. The candidates claim that in previous BCS exams, the number of advertised posts was increased:

The protesting candidates have stated, “Merit-based candidates have been deliberately deprived. Unless additional posts are allocated, we will not accept the newly announced results.”

PSC Chairman Professor Dr. Mobashwer Monem responded, “We are committed to fulfilling the candidates’ demands. A decision will be taken promptly in the upcoming commission meeting.”

44th BCS Examination