Stringent security measures have been enforced at the Bangladesh Secretariat on Tuesday as government employees escalate protests demanding the immediate withdrawal of the Public Service (Amendment) Ordinance 2025.
Amid such tight security by law enforcement agencies, government employees continued their protests inside the Secretariat.
As per their pre-announced program, the employees began their demonstration after 11am. They continued their protest for the fourth consecutive day, demanding the withdrawal of the ordinance.
The amendment has triggered widespread discontent among public sector workers, who argue it threatens job security, diminishes employee rights, and centralises excessive authority in the hands of senior officials.
As of 10:00am, members of the specialised the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) unit were seen stationed at the Secretariat’s main entrance, while personnel from the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) were deployed outside the compound.
Entry has been strictly restricted to authorised government officials and employees, in an effort to prevent further escalation of the unrest.
On Monday evening, the home ministry announced that all types of visitors—including journalists—would be barred from entering the Secretariat on Tuesday.
As of 9:30am, reporters remained outside the premises, with police officers indicating that a decision regarding media access would be made around noon.
The ongoing protests originate from strong opposition to the public service ordinance, which reportedly introduces significant revisions to existing service rules.
Key changes include alterations to disciplinary measures, dismissal procedures, and limitations on civil servants’ ability to appeal decisions.
Critics argue that the amendment grants disproportionate discretionary powers to senior officials, potentially paving the way for arbitrary suspensions or terminations, while simultaneously weakening institutional safeguards and avenues for justice.
Monday marked the third consecutive day of demonstrations inside the Secretariat, with employees from various ministries and departments participating in sit-ins, human chains, and protest rallies.
Leaders of the movement have announced plans to continue their agitation today and have called upon government staff across the country to demonstrate solidarity by organising similar protest programmes outside local administrative offices.
In a significant development, all staff associations operating within the Secretariat have now united under a single umbrella organisation named the Bangladesh Secretariat Officers-Employees Unity Forum.
This newly formed coalition will serve as the primary coordinating body for all protest-related activities, as well as the main platform for communicating employee demands to the government.
As tensions continue to rise, security forces remain on high alert to ensure law and order is maintained. Despite the heavy deployment of security personnel, protests have thus far remained largely peaceful and disciplined.