Comment on Sarjis' post: Disciplinary action against fisheries ministry employee over misconduct

A government employee has been subjected to disciplinary action for commenting on a Facebook post made by Sarjis Alam, the chief organiser of the northern region of the National Citizen Party (NCP) and one of the coordinators of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement.

Md Nazmul Huda is an office assistant cum computer typist in the Accounts Section of the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock.

He was temporarily suspended on 20 February—just one day after he made the comment on 19 February citing "misconduct" without mentioning the Facebook post, reports Prothom Alo.

However, a formal departmental case later filed against him directly referenced his comment on Sarjis' post. The charge sheet described Sarjis as a coordinator of the July Revolution and public uprising, and claimed that Nazmul's comment could be considered disrespectful toward individuals, institutions, or the state—potentially creating public dissatisfaction. 

The charge sheet accused him of violating the principles of responsible conduct expected from a public servant, labeling his act as "misconduct" under the 2018 disciplinary rules. 

Nazmul's comment on Sarjis Alam's post was, "You lobby for secretaries to be appointed from allies of the autocratic regime, and then you preach to us—really, brother?"

In response to the allegations, Nazmul submitted a written explanation on 27 March, in which he issued an unconditional apology.

Nazmul claimed he was suspended without prior notice or a show-cause letter. The order was signed by Senior Assistant Secretary Syeda Sadia Nuria. When contacted, she stated the action was taken as per office decision.

The Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock gave Nazmul 10 working days to respond in writing and asked whether he would like to participate in a personal hearing.

Joint Secretary of the Ministry, Shah Alam Mukul, confirmed the departmental case had been filed with proper authorisation and in accordance with relevant rules.

In his written defense, Nazmul pointed out that Sarjis Alam had not filed any formal complaint against him. Nonetheless, he was suspended and faced charges solely for commenting on a public Facebook post. He addressed the other allegations made against him and reiterated his apology if the government had felt embarrassed by his comment. He also stated he would remain cautious in the future and expressed interest in attending a personal hearing.