Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission demands autonomy and proper funding

In a powerful demonstration of unity and resolve, scientists, officers, and employees of the Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission (BAEC) gathered en masse today, Wednesday, 28 May 2025, at the Commission's headquarters. The assembly was a heartfelt protest against the Ministry of Science and Technology's ongoing undue interference and authoritarian actions, and a call for the restoration of the Commission's autonomy alongside the urgent implementation of their 11-point demands.

Since 22 April 2025, the Commission's dedicated members have engaged in continuous peaceful demonstrations, including sit-ins, signature collections, and wearing black badges. A significant milestone was reached on 4 May 2025 when a memorandum, signed by 1,613 individuals, was submitted to the honourable Chief Adviser. This memorandum outlined the pressing issues faced by the nation's largest research institution and sought the Chief Adviser's intervention for fair resolution. Despite the Chief Adviser's office forwarding the memorandum on 14 May 2025 to the Ministry of Science and Technology, no concrete action has followed.

The silence and inaction have deepened frustration across the scientific community, raising serious concern among those who value scientific progress in Bangladesh.

Rather than easing tensions, the Ministry's intrusive measures have escalated. On 13 May 2025, the Ministry of Finance, through an unexpected letter, threatened to withhold government funding for the BAEC for the 2025–26 fiscal year, contingent on the Commission's exclusion from the Integrated Budget and Accounting System (IBAS). Additionally, there have been alarming threats to cease mandatory radioactivity testing on imported food products—an essential public safety measure—and to halt affordable ultrasound services provided by the Nuclear Medicine and Allied Sciences division.

Such pressures have sown dismay and disillusionment throughout the Commission's ranks, affecting scientists and staff at every level.

The ongoing movement remains peaceful and well-organised, yet attempts to distort it into an unruly anti-government protest have been noted and condemned as deliberate provocations.

The community remains hopeful that the government will act judiciously and promptly to address these concerns. Until the 11-point demands are fulfilled, the movement will persist with determination, and if necessary, adopt more stringent measures to safeguard the Commission's independence and the future of scientific research in Bangladesh.