In the run-up to the upcoming national budget, the Bangladesh Government Officers and Employees Welfare Association (Central Committee) has announced a series of coordinated programmes across Dhaka and other parts of the country, demanding the swift implementation of the Ninth National Pay Scale. The organisation has stated that, after years of delay in revising the salary structure, it has now opted for a peaceful and democratic movement to press home its demands.
In a press release issued on Saturday, the organisation’s convener, Abdul Malek, said the initiative has been undertaken to secure what they describe as the legitimate rights of government employees. He highlighted that rising living costs and persistent inflation have placed severe financial strain on lower and mid-level public sector workers.
According to leaders of the association, at least two revisions of the national pay scale were expected over the past eleven years, yet no new structure has been formally implemented. As a result, many employees are reportedly struggling with debt, with a significant portion of their monthly salaries being consumed by loan repayments. In numerous cases, household budgets reportedly become unsustainable within the first 10 to 15 days of each month.
The association has therefore called for adequate budgetary allocation in the 2026–27 fiscal year to ensure the implementation of the Ninth Pay Scale. It argues that while approximately 2.2 million government employees play a vital role in administrative and development activities, their living standards have not improved proportionately.
Meanwhile, sources indicate that a restructured Pay Commission committee has already recommended the phased implementation of the Ninth Pay Scale. The proposal suggests that, considering fiscal constraints, salary adjustments could be introduced in multiple stages. According to information from the Ministry of Finance, the first phase of implementation may come into effect from 1 July, subject to final approval.
Planned Programme Schedule
| Date | Location | Type of Programme |
|---|---|---|
| 8 May | Patuakhali | Delegates’ assembly and discussion session |
| 9 May | Khulna | Delegates’ assembly and discussion session |
| 16 May | Dhaka (National Press Club) | Central delegates’ assembly and discussion session |
The organisation further stated that similar assemblies will continue throughout May in various districts. The central programme in Dhaka is expected to be the most significant, drawing representatives from across the country.
Leaders have warned that failure to allocate sufficient funds for the implementation of the Ninth Pay Scale in the upcoming budget could deepen dissatisfaction among government employees and potentially disrupt administrative operations. Nevertheless, they expressed optimism that the government would adopt a responsible approach and take effective measures to address their long-standing demand.