Government Pay Scale Protest Announced

A nationwide programme of action has been announced by the Bangladesh Government Officers and Employees Welfare Association, demanding the implementation of a new national pay scale. The six-day initiative, scheduled from 5 to 10 April, seeks urgent government intervention to address what the organisation describes as a widening gap between salaries and the rapidly rising cost of living.

In a statement issued on Wednesday (1 April), the announcement was jointly signed by convener Abdul Malek and member secretary Ashikul Islam. The organisation emphasised that since the implementation of the Eighth Pay Scale in 2015, no subsequent revision has been introduced, despite significant economic changes over the past decade.

According to the statement, the prices of essential commodities, housing rent, healthcare, education, as well as utility costs such as gas, water, and electricity, have increased sharply. As a result, the real income of government employees has eroded considerably, placing many under severe financial strain.

The leaders of the association argued that the introduction of a Ninth National Pay Scale has now become an urgent necessity in order to restore balance between earnings and expenditure. They have also urged that adequate allocations be included in the forthcoming 2026–27 national budget to ensure timely implementation.

Programme of Action

The announced schedule outlines a phased programme of peaceful demonstrations and representations across the country.

Under the plan, memoranda will be submitted to the Prime Minister through Deputy Commissioners in every district between 5 and 9 April. This will be followed on 10 April by peaceful discussion meetings and representative assemblies at upazila, district, and divisional levels.

The organisation further stated that the demand for a revised pay structure aligns with commitments previously made in electoral manifestos. It called upon the Prime Minister to personally intervene to expedite the formulation and execution of the Ninth Pay Scale.

Leaders of the association stressed that all activities will remain peaceful and within the framework of lawful democratic expression. However, they warned that continued delay in addressing the issue could intensify dissatisfaction among government employees across the country.