Rationalise "quota system"
Bangladesh, a poor country plagued by myriad problems and numerous constraints, apparently and indispensably requires an effective, pragmatic and efficient leadership provided by the Bangladesh Civil Service that should have the most brilliant, prudent and talented persons competent enough to address the public affairs, national issues and problems. Hence, the recruitment, selection and appointment of the people to the civil service should unconditionally be on the basis of merit to uphold the national interests. Regrettably, merely 45 percent candidates are recruited on merit and the rest 55 percent on quotas; 30 percent from freedom fighters' children, 10 percent from women, 10 percent from district quotas and 5 percent from tribal people. The quota system was introduced in Bangladesh by an executive order on 5 September, 1972 during a constitutional interregnum in the wake of a destructive war of independence. The constitution that came into effect on 16 December 1972 enshrined the principles of non-discrimination in the Public Service. The Articles 27 and 28 of the constitution stipulate that there shall be no discrimination in the recruitment of the people to the public service irrespective of caste, religion and sex. Though, later, the quota system was constitutionally validated showing the reason of advancement of the backward sections of society. But the provisional measures for proportional representation can not continue for an indefinite period. The long term bad impact of the quota system is being felt now. The quota system has paved the way for rampant corruption. Through the quota system, a large group of relatively poor calibre officials get entry into the civil service and ultimately weaken the entire service.
So, the meritocracy should be the basis of recruitment to the government services to prevent brain-drain and to ensure eligible and competent persons in the administration for effectual and efficient leadership. The quota system should be gradually phased out. A widespread demand from every section of society for rationalisation of the quota system is being repeatedly voiced. The experts, intellectuals and officials believe it is high time to rationalise the existing quota system.
The Public Service Commission, the highest authority for recruitment, selection and appointment of the class-1 government officials to the Bangladesh Civil Service, has also recommended to the Ministry of Establishment to rearrange the prevailing quota system. We are optimistic that the government will address the issue in the greater interest of the country.
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