JCD factions clash during Family Card recruitment exam amid influence allegations

Tension flared during a recruitment examination for Bangladesh's Family Card program in Bauphal upazila, Patuakhali, when two factions of the Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal (JCD) clashed. The incident occurred during a test for data collectors, supervisors, and ICT supervisors under the Upazila Social Services Office.

Several candidates alleged that the examination process was compromised by outsiders. They claimed that Akash Talukder, son of former BNP lawmaker Shahidul Alam Talukder, and Bauphal Upazila JCD President Abdullah Al Fahad entered the exam venue. These individuals reportedly stayed inside with mobile phones to help favored candidates, with one candidate alleging Fahad recorded videos during the test.

The alleged irregularities led to a scuffle when Sadikuzzaman Rakib, a former Bauphal Municipal JCD member secretary, protested the actions. Rakib claimed he was assaulted after objecting to attempts to influence the exam. However, Akash denied the allegations, stating he only visited the venue before the exam. Fahad also denied being inside the venue during the test and accused a "vested group" of spreading propaganda.

Upazila Social Services Officer Mushfiqur Rahman confirmed Akash entered the Upazila Parishad auditorium near the end of the exam, but noted the scuffle did not happen inside the hall. Bauphal Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Saleh Ahmed stated that unauthorized individuals are not permitted in exam halls. He assured that CCTV footage would be reviewed and an investigation launched to take necessary action if irregularities are found.

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The allegations are being taken seriously. We will review CCTV footage, investigate the matter and take necessary action if irregularities are found.