Bangladesh youth development recruitment exam controversy

The Department of Youth Development in Bangladesh suspended a recruitment examination for Assistant Upazila Youth Development Officer positions following allegations of a question paper leak. The suspension occurred as approximately 319,000 applicants arrived at 95 centers across Dhaka, triggering widespread protests by job seekers who demanded the resignation of the Department’s Director General.

In response, the Ministry of Youth and Sports formed a five-member high-level investigation committee. Following investigations by the Special Response Battalion (SRB), authorities arrested seven individuals in connection with the breach, including five government employees. The arrested group reportedly includes staff from the National Board of Revenue (NBR), the Department of Environment, and the Ministry of Defence, as well as two job seekers.

Investigators determined that a blurry photograph of the question paper was sent to an NBR employee at 4:43 am, followed by a clearer version sent to an NBR computer operator at 6:15 am. An answer sheet was subsequently circulated to prospective candidates and those attempting to purchase the leaked material. During raids in Dhaka and surrounding areas, authorities seized question papers, admission cards, certificates, stamp papers, bank cheques, and cash.

On October 16, the department held a rescheduled examination. To ensure fairness, the Minister of State for Youth and Sports, Md. Aminul Haque, implemented strict security measures, including monitoring the printing of papers at the Secretariat and seizing digital devices from involved staff.