The government has cancelled the gazettes of 481 non-freedom fighters who were enlisted on political considerations during the past fascist regime, Liberation War Affairs Minister Ahmad Azam Khan told parliament on Sunday.
Responding to an urgent notice under Rule 71 raised by Sylhet-3 MP Md Abdul Malik, the minister said investigations and verifications were conducted nationwide from August 2024 to March 2026 to identify the fraudulent enlistees.
In his statement, MP Abdul Malik alleged that genuine freedom fighters were neglected during the past 15 years, while many dishonest individuals managed to include their names on the list using false information to enjoy state benefits. He noted that areas like Balaganj and South Surma in Sylhet have been particularly affected.
The minister acknowledged that some opportunists have infiltrated the list through dishonest means but emphasised that the process of identifying them is ongoing.
“The brave freedom fighters are the country’s finest sons; there is actually no such thing as a fake freedom fighter,” he said, adding that the sub-committee of the National Freedom Fighter Council (JAMUKA) is conducting regular hearings and verifications based on complaints. As soon as allegations are proven, certificates and gazettes will be cancelled, he assured.
Recalling the contributions of freedom fighters from the Sylhet region, which holds the memories of Liberation War Commander-in-Chief General MAG Osmani and former Navy Chief Mahbub Ali Khan, the minister said the government is committed to their welfare.
He also assured that expatriate freedom fighters who have not yet received digital certificates or smart IDs will be provided them as soon as possible upon application.
Responding to the MP’s demands, the minister said the work on the South Surma Freedom Fighter Complex would be handed over quickly, while construction and renovation of complexes in Balaganj and Fenchuganj upazilas are also in government plans.
The minister said he would soon visit historic Liberation War sites in Sylhet and take necessary measures after gathering more information from local representatives to protect the honour of genuine freedom fighters.
