HC questions pay disparity between women and men footballers
The sports secretary, the Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF), and other relevant authorities have been instructed to respond within the next four weeks
The High Court has issued a rule questioning why the disparity in salaries, allowances, and other benefits between male and female footballers in Bangladesh should not be declared illegal and unconstitutional.
The HC bench, led by Justice Sikder Mahmudur Raji, issued the rule today (30 November) after hearing a public interest litigation (PIL) filed in this regard.
The sports secretary, the Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF), and other relevant authorities have been instructed to respond within the next four weeks.
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The PIL was jointly filed by Supreme Court lawyers Barrister Sumaiya Binta Tanvir and Barrister Ariza Meheli Khan, challenging the discriminatory practices in the remuneration and facilities provided to female footballers.
The petitioners highlighted a stark contrast in earnings, saying, "Male footballers receive an annual salary of Tk50 to 60 lakh. In comparison, female footballers receive only Tk6-7 lakh per year."
They further noted that even these meagre salaries are not paid regularly to female players.
Beyond income disparities, the petitioners emphasised the lack of fundamental support for women in the sport, stating, "There are no housing facilities for female footballers. Regular leagues for women's football are also not organised."
Adding to the grievances, they revealed that a promised Tk1.5 crore incentive for the women's football team – announced after their SAFF Football Championship victory – is yet to be disbursed.
