Scientists, officers, and staff of the Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission (BAEC) held a press conference today, April 22, 2025, to protest what they described as "unwarranted interference and authoritarian conduct by the Ministry" that they claim has undermined the Commission's autonomy. The event occurred at the Dr. Anower Hossain Auditorium at Paramanu Bhaban in Dhaka.
Established under Presidential Order No. 15 of 1973 and Act No. 23 of 2017, the BAEC is a specialized body responsible for the peaceful application, development, and research of nuclear energy in Bangladesh, as well as the implementation of projects like the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant. The Commission oversees 40 institutes and provides various services benefiting over 800,000 individuals and more than 100 institutions annually. These services include cancer diagnosis and therapy, radioisotope supply, tissue banking, radiation checks on imported food, and operation of a research reactor. BAEC also supports higher education by allowing university students to complete theses at no cost.
The protesters highlighted several key issues causing a "current crisis and discrimination" in the Commission. A major concern is the crisis of autonomy, with key leadership positions remaining vacant and only an acting Chairman and one member currently in charge, leading to operational stagnation and depriving staff of rights and benefits under the BAEC Act and Service Rules.
Obstruction to higher education and training opportunities for scientists was also raised. Despite having the necessary qualifications and scholarships, scientists are facing bureaucratic delays and denial of necessary government orders (GOs) for training and education abroad, a process now handled by the Ministry of Science and Technology. Concerns were also raised about ministry officials nominating themselves for foreign trips, even though unrelated to their qualifications.
Pay discrimination and demotion of positions are further points of contention. Scientists state that their positions should be equivalent to public university faculty in rank and benefits, as was the case until 2015. However, they were excluded from receiving Grade-1 and Grade-2 positions granted to university teachers, and newly created scientific positions have been assigned downgraded grades, impacting administrative and financial matters.
The scientists and staff also expressed concern about the discouragement of young scientists due to denied opportunities, blocked promotions, and reduced financial benefits, leading some to leave for other careers and potentially jeopardizing the future of nuclear science in the country.
Regarding the Rooppur Nuclear Power Project, while BAEC is the designated owner organization and holds major contracts and licenses, there are concerns that the Ministry is attempting to sign the Power Purchase Agreement without including the Commission, which could undermine BAEC's ownership role.
The forced implementation of the iBAS++ financial management system without a feasibility assessment is another significant issue. Scientists believe it is inappropriate to upload confidential nuclear science research and project cost information to a public system, noting that no other country discloses such details. The halting of fund deductions for BAEC due to non-adoption of iBAS++ has jeopardized services, research, and the payment of salaries and pensions, leaving approximately 2,500 officers and employees, including 600 scientists, without their March 2025 salaries and allowances.
Other issues highlighted include a lack of promotions and necessary positions despite the growth in activities, hindering the ability to serve society effectively. The absence of special benefits and the Ministry's perceived authoritarian behavior make it difficult to attract and retain talented individuals in nuclear science.
To address these issues and attract talent, the press release called for the removal of barriers to higher education and training, introduction of special allowances for scientists, provision of housing and vehicle loans similar to civil servants, reduction of ministerial interference, construction of modern laboratories, allocation of sufficient research funds, and fostering a collaborative work environment.
During the press conference, BAESA president Dr. A. S. M. Saifullah stated that there was no opportunity to arrange a press conference to raise these issues during the previous government's tenure and that the Commission was bound by ministerial directives. He added that the three associations representing scientists, officers, and staff could not get connected among themselves previously and have initiated their current actions after receiving no response from the concerned ministry adviser. Further activities, including a potential work break, are being considered if there are no positive responses.
Dr. Saifullah reiterated that commission scientists are facing discrimination by being denied government orders to participate in international conferences and pursue sponsored higher studies abroad, citing recent instances where scientists were prevented from going to the USA and Japan for higher studies. He emphasised that the Commission is an established institution with its own rules and regulations, and they would be satisfied if the institution could apply its policies independently with existing benefits.
The press release was concluded by drawing the attention of responsible authorities to ensure the Commission's autonomy, stop undue interference, and establish a professional and respectful work environment for the advancement of nuclear science in the country.
