The Bangladesh Red Crescent Society (BDRCS), long regarded as a leading humanitarian organization dedicated to disaster relief and voluntary service, is now mired in allegations of irregularities, authoritarian practices, and internal strife. For nearly a year and a half, the organization has been beset by administrative chaos, controversial transfers, unlawful appointments, and corruption scandals, leaving its core humanitarian activities largely paralyzed.
The crisis reportedly began after the Ministry of Health reconstituted the BDRCS governing board on August 5, 2024. Following this, several allegations emerged against the current chairman — including favoritism in appointing his personal assistant, reappointing two retired directors on contract, reinstating an officer previously penalized for sexual harassment, and irregular recruitment of a Communication Specialist.
Board members who opposed these actions allegedly came under the chairman’s wrath. Insiders claim he even called in the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), unnecessarily exposing the institution to public embarrassment. It has also been alleged that the chairman himself at times supplied information to the media against board members and subordinates.
Protests and Administrative Suppression
In protest of these alleged irregularities, Red Crescent officials, employees, and volunteers launched a weeklong movement on October 8, demanding the chairman’s resignation. The demonstrations were met with strict suppression, which brought activities to a standstill but left deep internal resentment.
During the protest, Muntasir Mahmud, Deputy Director of the Youth and Volunteers Division, was dismissed from his position. He alleged:
“Volunteers work tirelessly to bring smiles to people’s faces, but their efforts go unappreciated. Anyone who disagrees with the chairman faces insults, harassment, or even physical threats. I was fired simply for standing with the volunteers.”
Chairman Professor Dr. Azizul Islam, however, denied all allegations, claiming:
“A group of individuals linked to the BNP and NCP are conspiring against me.”
Health Ministry’s Stance
When asked about the chairman’s alleged autocratic behavior, Health Secretary Md. Saidur Rahman said:
“The Red Crescent Society operates under its own law. We are not inclined to intervene directly.”
However, both the appointment and tenure extension of the current board and chairman were approved through Health Ministry directives.
Irregular Recruitment of Communication Specialist
Allegations of procedural violations have also surfaced regarding the appointment of a Communication Specialist in the organization’s communications department.
According to reports, Director Arifa Mehra Sinha breached recruitment rules by personally submitting the application of Md. Midul Islam Mridul, whose deadline had already expired, and including him in the shortlist. Investigations later revealed that the selected candidate had falsified his work history and fabricated claims of employment at multiple media outlets.
Unjustified Transfers and Postings
Several senior officials, including Zafar Imam Sikdar, Senior Director and former VP of BM College, were reportedly transferred without valid reason. In one instance, a driver named Rahim was transferred to a district with no available vehicle.
Insiders allege that the organization has witnessed an unusually high number of arbitrary transfers — more than in the past decade.
Reversal of Punishment for Sexual Harassment
In 2023, Assistant Deputy Director Moin Uddin Moin was demoted after being found guilty of sexually harassing a female colleague. However, the current chairman allegedly reviewed the case a year later—violating organizational policy—and reinstated him to his previous position.
The chairman defended his action, saying:
“The complainant’s behavior made me uncomfortable. Moin Uddin is a decent and capable officer.”
The victim, however, expressed outrage, saying:
“This is a gross violation of Red Crescent policy. Once a harassment case is proven, punishment cannot be overturned a year later. This is deeply unjust.”
Political Bias and Partisan Promotions
The influence of Awami League and Bangabandhu Parishad-affiliated officials within the Red Crescent has reportedly increased. Recently, five deputy directors were promoted to director, three of whom are known Awami League supporters.
Additionally, 28 employees were promoted to officer level — most of them reportedly sharing similar political affiliations.
Board member Dr. Mahmuda Alam Mitu alleged:
“Despite clear instructions from the Health Ministry, 40 officials were transferred in just three days to politically ‘align’ the organization. Volunteers who protested were physically attacked.”
Controversy Surrounding Health Division Director
Dr. Shahana Zafar, Director of the Health Division, had previously been transferred during the Awami League administration over corruption allegations. However, she has now been reinstated by the current board.
During the Secretary General’s foreign visit, she was appointed Acting Secretary General and allegedly approved numerous arbitrary transfers and postings within three days.
Irregular New Appointments
Following the board’s reconstitution, several new appointments were reportedly made — including the Chairman’s Personal Secretary (PS-1), Driver, Receptionists at the Blood Center, and an IT Assistant, whose salary was doubled upon promotion to officer rank.
Officials allege that these appointments were made without following proper recruitment procedures.
Conclusion
Once a symbol of compassion and humanitarian service, the Bangladesh Red Crescent Society now finds itself entangled in political favoritism, internal feuds, and administrative irregularities.
Multiple sources warn that if immediate reforms are not initiated, the institution’s credibility — and its ability to serve people in times of crisis — could be severely undermined.