If Bangladesh truly expects its brightest minds to serve the nation, then it must rethink the current system of job verification. Among the various hurdles and anxieties faced by job seekers and civil servants, the pre- and post-employment verification process stands out as one of the most daunting. For many, it has become a draconian regulation.
Highly qualified candidates have often been denied jobs not due to any fault of their own but because of the political affiliations of an uncle, cousin, or in-law. In numerous instances over the decades, deserving individuals have been rejected simply because a family member had a criminal case pending or was linked to an opposition party. The reality that political allegiance often determines appointments and promotions, regardless of merit, has become a deeply embedded, though unofficial, tradition in Bangladesh. Who can forget the media-broadcasted message: “Just pass the written test and reach the viva board—we’ll take care of the rest”?
Following the 2024 student and youth uprising, the dream of an inclusive and fair Bangladesh began to blossom. To realize that dream, it’s imperative to put an end to discriminatory hiring practices based on political ideology. The current verification process needs urgent reform. While complete abolishment may not be realistic just yet—given the lack of full digital infrastructure—the scope of verification should be strictly limited to checking criminal records and verifying the authenticity of academic credentials.
In a democratic society, political expression is a constitutional right. Supporting any legitimate political party—or choosing not to support any—is part of one’s civil liberties. Penalizing individuals in the job market based on the political stance of their relatives is both unjust and dehumanizing. After years of academic dedication, clearing multiple levels of competitive exams, being deemed unfit for employment solely based on a flawed verification report is nothing short of cruel.
Verification conducted by local law enforcement is often vulnerable to influence and bias. In rural areas especially, misinformation from politically motivated rivals, resentful relatives, or uncooperative neighbors can distort reports. Even university peers aren’t always supportive. In such an environment, fair verification is nearly impossible.
Canada’s approach offers a useful contrast. Here, background checks are focused, professional, and limited in scope—primarily to verify identity, assess criminal history, and ensure national security. Political beliefs or family affiliations are not grounds for disqualification in any public hiring process. This ethos stems from a deep respect for individual rights and meritocracy, which Bangladesh too must strive for.
Moreover, public service in any democratic nation must remain neutral. Government employees should follow a clear code of conduct, serving citizens without any political bias. Upholding this principle is what transforms bureaucrats into true public servants.
To build a progressive and humane nation, Bangladesh must overhaul its outdated verification practices. Stop punishing the meritorious. Let us protect and empower them instead. If a political party stands against the nation’s sovereignty and interests, then ban it through lawful means. But do not criminalize those affiliated with constitutionally valid political organizations. This kind of double standard has no place in a democracy.
Governments often label opposing views as threats and shy away from granting equal rights. Until we move beyond that mindset, true democratic progress will remain elusive. Reforming job verification is essential to ensure equal opportunities for all.
Let the sacrifices of those who stood for justice during the July uprising inspire us to choose fairness over fear, equity over exclusion.
