Teachers and BCS Candidates Stage Protests in Dhaka Over Demands and Exam Schedule

On Sunday, Dhaka witnessed two separate but significant demonstrations one by teachers of schools for children with disabilities and another by candidates of the 47th Bangladesh Civil Service (BCS) examination. Both groups voiced frustration over unmet demands and decisions they believe are unfair.

In the first protest, teachers marched from the Press Club toward the Secretariat to press their five-point demand. The rally was halted at Gate No. 5 of the Secretariat, where police had set up barricades. Unable to proceed further, the teachers staged a sit-in and chanted slogans. To ease tensions, police allowed a six-member delegation to enter the Secretariat and meet with the Education Adviser, where they formally presented their demands.

Meanwhile, hundreds of BCS candidates gathered outside the Bangladesh Public Service Commission (PSC) office in Agargaon. Their grievance centered on the short preparation time for the written exam, scheduled to begin on November 27. Candidates argued that in previous years, examinees were given three to six months to prepare, while this year they have been allotted only 40 days. They described the decision as discriminatory and unreasonable, claiming it undermines their ability to prepare adequately.

Protesters also accused the PSC of backtracking on earlier assurances that more time would be granted. Instead, the commission published the exam routine according to the original schedule, sparking anger among candidates. The demonstration escalated as police used batons and water cannons to disperse protesters, leaving several injured.

These twin protests highlight growing unrest in Bangladesh’s education and civil service sectors. Teachers of special-needs schools are demanding recognition and support, while aspiring civil servants are calling for fairness in exam scheduling. Both groups argue that their appeals are rooted in justice and practicality, yet both encountered resistance from authorities.

The events underscore the broader challenges facing Bangladesh’s governance balancing administrative efficiency with fairness and inclusivity. As the country prepares for crucial reforms in education and public service recruitment, the voices of teachers and students alike are demanding to be heard.