Publications

Tanjil Ahmed is a prolific researcher and writer, with numerous publications addressing various facets of governance and digital transformation. His research spans topics such as the Union Digital Center (UDC), pandemic response, Indigenous communities, good governance, and e-governance. Ahmed has also explored the intricacies of decentralization, municipal governance, and e-commerce. In addition to his academic contributions, he has penned several editorial pieces for prominent newspapers, including the Daily Sun and the Daily Observer. His work reflects a deep commitment to enhancing public participation and effective governance in both urban and rural contexts.

Research Publications

E-Commerce in Bangladesh: Exploring the Challenges and Prospects of Online Shopping amid the Pandemic

Tanjil Ahmed*

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has been raised as a new concern in the world, which poses several uncertainties in every aspect of human life. In particular, it has drastically affected the business and economic sectors around the world. Due to the pandemic, people have changed their purchasing behavior from the traditional concept. The principal aim of this study was to explore people’s perceptions of using online shopping during the pandemic. This study has also investigated the major challenges and prospects of online shopping during the pandemic. The study was conducted using a quantitative approach. Following stratified random sampling, a total of 320 people participated in the cross-sectional survey that used online shopping during the pandemic. The findings reveal that Bangladesh has provided a favorable atmosphere to carry out e-commerce activities, whereas 55% took advantage of e-commerce, 90% of the respondents had a device at their disposal to access online shopping, 68% had a stable internet connection, and 41% were satisfied with the quality of online shopping services. In contrast, some challenges were also identified, including that 82.5% of respondents faced the dilemma of using unreliable online platforms, 60% faced fraudulent activities, 68.75% faced payment complexity, and 72% faced high internet costs. The study findings suggest that the government and concerned authorities (the Ministry of Commerce) should adopt new technologies, build digital infrastructure, ensure logistics capabilities, establish reliable e-commerce platforms, ensure high-speed internet access, and build a collaborative relationship with stakeholders to address the issues of online shopping in Bangladesh. However, future research may focus on facilitating the growth and resilience of the e-commerce sector while leveraging emerging opportunities in a post-pandemic landscape.

Key Words: COVID-19 Pandemic, E-Commerce, Online Shopping, People’s Perception, Challenges, Prospects, Bangladesh.

*Assistant Professor, Department of Public Administration and Governance Studies, Jatiya Kabi Kazi Nazrul Islam University, Trishal, Mymensingh, Bangladesh. Email: tanjilahmedtaj@gmail.com Click here to read the full manuscript 

Citation: 

Ahmed, T. (2023). E-commerce in Bangladesh: Exploring the Challenges and Prospects of Online Shopping amid the Pandemic. Journal of Governance and Development, 1(3), 71–91. doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.11519513 

Challenges of Local People's Participation in Ward Shava and Open Budget Session: A Case Study on Different Union Parishads at Trishal Upazila

 Tanjil Ahmed*, Tamanna Akter**

Abstract

The active involvement of people is of paramount importance in establishing a robust governance framework in Bangladesh. Employing active citizen engagement, individuals have the opportunity to share their perspectives on the process of governmental decision-making. From this perspective, this study investigates the impediments to active community involvement in Ward Shava and Open Budget Sessions within various Union Parishads in Trishal Upazila. The study was conducted based on a quantitative approach. A total of 300 local residents from different Union Parishads (Amirabari, Bailar, Baliparar, Dhanikhola, Mathbari, Rampura, Sakhua, and Trishal) under Trishal Upazila participated in the cross-sectional survey. The findings of the study reveal that a significant majority, i.e., 80% and 83% of the respondents, did not actively engage in this initial and final phase of the budgeting process, respectively, whereas only 39% of individuals residing in rural areas actively engaged in the Ward Shava. The results also show that a number of related factors, such as low levels of awareness, low rates of literacy among rural populations, political influence, intimidation and fear, distrust, bureaucratic complexity, etc., significantly impede people's participation in Ward Shava and Open Budget meetings. In this vein, addressing these challenges requires a concerted effort to raise awareness through community education, capacity building, and inclusive decision-making, promote accountability and transparency, and establish effective communication between local authorities and the community. However, the study findings incorporate theoretical and practical contributions to the field of local government.  Click here  to read the full manuscript 


Key Words: People’s Participation, Ward Shava, Open Budget Meeting, Local Government, Union Parishads, Bangladesh


*Assistant Professor, Department of Public Administration and Governance Studies, Jatiya Kabi Kazi Nazrul Islam University, Trishal, Mymensingh, Bangladesh. Email: tanjilahmedtaj@gmail.com

**Post-Graduate Student, Department of Public Administration and Governance Studies, Jatiya Kabi Kazi Nazrul Islam University, Trishal, Mymensingh, Bangladesh.


Citation

Ahmed, Tanjil & Akter, Tamanna. (2023). Challenges of Local People's Participation in Ward Shava and Open  Budget Session: A Case Study on Different Union Parishads at Trishal Upazila. The Journal of Local Government,  47(1), 47–64. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.10450389 

Citizens' Assessment of the Municipal Services Provided by Mymensingh City Corporation

 Sharmin Begum*, Tanjil Ahmed**

Abstract

City corporations, which are crucial in defining the urban environment, have a significant impact on the quality of life of their residents. Hence, this study aims to explore citizens' assessment and satisfaction with the different services provided by Mymensingh City Corporation. Employing an exploratory research approach, the study gathers quantitative data through surveys. The findings of the study revealed that 24% of participants strongly agreed that the Mymensingh City Corporation upholds the Citizen Charter while providing services, 38% were satisfied with the MCC's present services, 12% claimed to have participated in the MCC decision-making process, 22% concurred that the MCC demonstrates an adequate level of transparency and accountability in its operations, 24% were satisfied with the MCC's efforts to preserve public safety and civil defense, and 38% said that the MCC had done a good job of upholding urban planning. These statistics clearly indicate that MCC has enough scope to improve its overall performance regarding enhancing citizen satisfaction. Since the survey was conducted during the pandemic, it has restricted gathering data from an adequate number of respondents. However, there is scope for further research by applying a mixed method with a large sample size. Finally, necessary policy recommendations have been discussed in the study that may improve the performance of the MCC. Click here  to read the full manuscript 

Key Words: Citizens’ assessment, municipal services, citizen charter, urban planning, accountability and transparency, Bangladesh.

*Assistant Professor, Department of Public Administration and Governance Studies, Jatiya Kabi Kazi Nazrul Islam University, Trishal, Mymensingh, Bangladesh. Email: sharminpags15@gmail.com 

**Lecturer, Department of Public Administration and Governance Studies, Jatiya Kabi Kazi Nazrul Islam University, Trishal, Mymensingh, Bangladesh. Email: tanjilahmedtaj@gmail.com


Citation

Sharmin Begum & Tanjil Ahmed (2023). Citizens’ Assessment of the Municipal Services Provided by Mymensingh City Corporation. International Review of Social Sciences Research, 3 (4), 1-25. https://doi.org/10.53378/353020 


Journey to Smart Bangladesh: Realities and Challenges

Tanjil Ahmed*, Nazmul Hasan**, Runa Akter*** 

Abstract

Bangladesh, a nation renowned for its resilience and quick growth, has started on a transformational path to become a "Smart Bangladesh." This vision entails utilizing technological advancements to enhance the lives of its citizens, improve governance, and foster sustainable economic growth. To identify the obstacles preventing the realization of a fully smart nation, this study evaluated the current technological landscape, governmental initiatives, and societal integration. Moreover, the study assessed policy gaps, infrastructure constraints, socioeconomic barriers, and citizen engagement. Therefore, the main purpose of the study was to comprehensively measure the trajectory towards a 'Smart Bangladesh.' The study was conducted using a qualitative approach, whereas secondary data were analyzed to reach its findings. The findings of the study revealed the paradigm shift from digital Bangladesh to smart Bangladesh, the development approaches of digital Bangladesh to smart Bangladesh, the diagnoses of transforming digital Bangladesh to smart Bangladesh, and the implications of smart technologies (IoT, AI, blockchain technology, big data analysis, etc.) in transforming digital Bangladesh to smart Bangladesh. Similarly, the study highlighted the challenges behind implementing smart Bangladesh. However, collaboration among the government, private sector, academic community, and civil society is essential for implementing smart Bangladesh. Additionally, it is essential to establish exhaustive policies, laws, and regulations to govern emerging technologies and protect citizen rights. Nevertheless, the findings of the study will provide both theoretical and practical contributions, especially in building the potential of technology to drive sustainable development, uplift communities, and shape a brighter future for all its citizens. Click here  to read the full manuscript 

Key Words: Development Approaches, Digitalization, Paradigm Shift, Realities and Challenges, Smart Bangladesh. 

*Lecturer, Department of Public Administration and Governance Studies, Jatiya Kabi Kazi Nazrul Islam University, Trishal, Mymensingh, Bangladesh. Email: tanjilahmedtaj@gmail.com

**Assistant Professor, Department of Public Administration and Governance Studies, Jatiya Kabi Kazi Nazrul Islam University, Trishal, Mymensingh, Bangladesh.

***Post-Graduate Student, Department of Local Government and Urban Development, Jatiya Kabi Kazi Nazrul Islam University, Mymensingh, Bangladesh


Citation

Ahmed, T., Hasan, N., & Akter, R. (2023). Journey to Smart Bangladesh: Realities and Challenges. International Journal of Qualitative Research, 3(2), 178–187. https://doi.org/10.47540/ijqr.v3i2.980 


Role of E-Governance Amid the Pandemic in Providing Healthcare, Education, and Social Services (HESS) in Bangladesh

Tanjil Ahmed*

Abstract

COVID-19 has imposed a severe impact on health, economics, society, trade & commerce, administration, and all aspects of human existence. In this regard, digital governance, i.e., electronic governance (e-governance), is now playing a significant role in tackling the drastic effects of COVID-19 in Bangladesh. E-governance refers to the process of using information and communication technology in the field of delivering public services. The principal aim of this study was to figure out what role e-governance plays in health, education, and social services (HESS) in Bangladesh during the pandemic. This research, in precise, focused on the impact of e-governance on the government's decision-making, emergency health care management, education management, and social welfare in Bangladesh during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study was done using a qualitative method. The findings of the study reveal the significant implications of e-governance in the management of health issues, education issues, and social issues during the pandemic. In particular, the findings of the study demonstrate the contribution of electronic learning, telemedicine, one-stop service centers, and emergency helpline services (999) in terms of addressing the devastating effects of the pandemic in Bangladesh. Moreover, the study incorporated both practical and managerial contributions. As a result, the authors believe that this study's contribution is crucial and practical for determining what the actual effects of e-governance were in Bangladesh during the pandemic. Click here  to read the full manuscript 

Key Words: COVID-19, E-Governance, Healthcare services, Education management, and Bangladesh


*Lecturer, Department of Public Administration and Governance Studies, Jatiya Kabi Kazi Nazrul Islam University, Trishal, Mymensingh, Bangladesh. Email: tanjilahmedtaj@gmail.com


Citation

Ahmed, T. (2023). Role of E-Governance amid the Pandemic in Providing Healthcare, Education, and Social Services (HESS) in Bangladesh. Asian Journal of Social Sciences and Legal Studies, 142–153. https://doi.org/10.34104/ajssls.023.01420153 


People's Participation in Ensuring Good Governance at Local Levels in Bangladesh: A Study on Union Parishads

Tanjil Ahmed*, Tamanna Akter**

Abstract

People's participation is a critical component of good governance, as it strengthens effective decision-making and improves the efficiency of local government practice. However, due to a variety of issues, people's participation in terms of ensuring good governance has been hampered, posing significant challenges to the effective service delivery of local government. In this regard, the study's primary goal was to explore the issue of people's participation in terms of ensuring good governance in Bangladesh. The study was carried out using a quantitative approach, with data gathered from primary sources. The findings of the study reveal that most of the rural people had no idea about the UP-standing committee (95%), open budget meeting (78%), and Union Parishad Act (83%). Similarly, it was found that 98% of rural people did not participate in the pre-open budget session and final open budget session, whereas 95% and 97% of rural people did not participate in the Ward Shaba and UP standing committees, respectively. Conversely, it was found that only 45% of rural people participated in UP village court activities. These findings demonstrate conclusively that individuals were less concerned in their engagement in various local government avenues to ensure good governance. In this vein, the research recommends that public education, awareness, and government-relevant policies might be successful in arousing citizens' concern about ensuring good governance at local government bodies, especially in UPs in Bangladesh.  Click here  to read the full manuscript 

Key Words: Good Governance, People’s Participation, Local Government, Challenges, Practice, Bangladesh.


*Lecturer, Department of Public Administration and Governance Studies, Jatiya Kabi Kazi Nazrul Islam University, Trishal, Mymensingh, Bangladesh. Email: tanjilahmedtaj@gmail.com;

**Post-Graduate Student, Department of Public Administration and Governance Studies, Jatiya Kabi Kazi Nazrul Islam University, Trishal, Mymensingh, Bangladesh.


Citation

Ahmed, T., & Akter, T. (2022). People’s participation in ensuring good governance at local levels in Bangladesh: A study on Union Parishads. Journal of Governance and Development. 1(2), 178–187. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.8019219 


Recent Practices of People’s Participation in Different Avenues of Rural Local Government: Realities and Challenges behind Strengthening Decentralization in Bangladesh

Tanjil Ahmed*, Azizur Rahman**, Tamanna Akter***

Abstract

People’s participation in various avenues of local administration is crucial for strengthening decentralization in Bangladesh, even though such participation faces significant challenges. The main purpose of this research is to explore the most current trends in people’s participation in different avenues of local government. This research also examines the realities and challenges involved in strengthening decentralization in Bangladesh. Using a quantitative methodology, this research found that different avenues of people’s participation in Union Parishads have fostered successful decentralization since these avenues certify independent participation and enable them to share their opinions and influence decision-making processes. Since decentralization facilitates power transfer from the central to the local level, people’s participation is functional within Union Parishads. Moreover, this research demonstrates that most rural people are severely challenged in participating in the different avenues of Union Parishads due to political complexity, institutional corruption, poor education, and general unawareness. The authors therefore suggest that, by implementing public awareness programs, ensuring the maximum autonomy of local government units, and ensuring the accountability and transparency of service providers, people’s participation can strengthen the decentralization of rural local government in Bangladesh. Click here  to read the full manuscript 

Key Words: Decentralization; people’s participation; local government; union parishad; avenues of participation; Bangladesh


*Lecturer, Department of Public Administration and Governance Studies, Jatiya Kabi Kazi Nazrul Islam University, Trishal, Mymensingh, Bangladesh. Email: tanjilahmedtaj@gmail.com;

**Associate Professor, Department of Public Administration and Governance Studies, Jatiya Kabi Kazi Nazrul Islam University, Trishal, Mymensingh, Bangladesh

**Post-Graduate Student, Department of Public Administration and Governance Studies, Jatiya Kabi Kazi Nazrul Islam University, Trishal, Mymensingh, Bangladesh.


Citation

Ahmed, N. T., Rahman, N. A., & Akter, N. T. (2022c). Recent practices of people’s participation in different avenues of rural local government. PCD Journal, 10(1), 133–167. https://doi.org/10.22146/pcd.v10i1.5096 



Indigenous Garo Women's Role in Family Transformation in Bangladesh

Md. Harunur Rashid*, Tanjil Ahmed**, Subal Nokrek, Nazmul Hasan, Tamanna Akter

Abstract

The study aims to explore the roles of indigenous Garo women in transforming their families in Bangladesh. A quantitative approach was applied to conduct the study, while the social survey method was used to collect data and information. The study reveals that the socio-economic status of Garo women is very poor as 35% of them completed the primary level of education and 40% passed the secondary level of education while 64% of Garo women are day laborers and 61% are loan receivers. Conventional role-female headship has been changing overwhelmingly as both husband and wife are playing vibrant roles in the family building where 80% of family decisions are being taken jointly. Though the traditional role of female headship is being changed, women have to perform 69% of household activities. Their participation in local social organizations is impressive (74%) but they are reluctant to get involved in local politics. Click here  to read the full manuscript 

Key Words: Indigenous Community; Garo Women; Family Transformation; Bangladesh; Female Headship


*Assistant Professor, Department of Public Administration and Governance Studies, Jatiya Kabi Kazi Nazrul Islam University, Trishal, Mymensingh, Bangladesh. 

**Lecturer, Department of Public Administration and Governance Studies, Jatiya Kabi Kazi Nazrul Islam University, Trishal, Mymensingh, Bangladesh. Email: tanjilahmedtaj@gmail.com;

***Master of Development Studies (MDS), Department of Public Administration and Governance Studies, Jatiya Kabi Kazi Nazrul Islam University, Trishal, Mymensingh, Bangladesh

****Assistant Professor, Department of Public Administration and Governance Studies, Jatiya Kabi Kazi Nazrul Islam University, Trishal, Mymensingh, Bangladesh.

*****Post-Graduate Student, Department of Public Administration and Governance Studies, Jatiya Kabi Kazi Nazrul Islam University, Trishal, Mymensingh, Bangladesh.


Citation

Rashid, M. H., Ahmed, T., Nokrek, S., Hasan, N., & Akter, T. (2022). Indigenous Garo Women’s role in family transformation in Bangladesh. International Journal of Social Science Research and Review, 5(9), 175–191. https://doi.org/10.47814/ijssrr.v5i9.467 



Pandemic and Governance in Bangladesh: Case of Field Administration

Tanjil Ahmed*, Tamanna Akter**

Abstract

Currently, countries around the globe are simultaneously fighting against the COVID-19 pandemic. The government of Bangladesh has already taken and implemented several policies to control the spread of COVID-19. Moreover, in building public awareness, the central and field administration has implemented several policies such as-lockdown strategy, isolation, home quarantine, obligatory use of masks, ensuring social distance, etc. Conversely, due to being a densely populated country, most of the rural people in Bangladesh are not aware of the threat of COVID-19. In this regard, field administration (Upazila Administration) i.e UNO (Upazila Nirbahi Officer) has been playing a significant role to make rural people aware from the very beginning of the COVID-19 outbreak in Bangladesh. But in some cases, the Upazila administration faced some limitations. Thereafter, the study identified the different roles of UNO in building public awareness at rural levels in Bangladesh. The study was conducted based on a quantitative approach of exploratory nature. The findings of the study demonstrated that a large group of rural people, i.e 71% had knowledge about the threat of COVID-19, but 53.6% of rural people did not use masks, and 9.10% did not have faith in the physical distance that can eliminate the risk of COVID-19. As well, 50% of respondents argued that UNO played a significant role in enhancing rural people's awareness amid the pandemic. In particular, 38% and 32.70 % of respondents argued that implementation of the 'No Mask, No Service' policy and 'monitoring initiative' was an effective mechanism to increase public awareness respectively. Thereafter, the authors illustrated several suggestions to enhance the rural people's awareness amid the pandemic in Bangladesh. Click here  to read the full manuscript 

Key Words: Pandemic; Governance; Field Administration; Public Awareness; Role of UNO; Monitoring


*Lecturer, Department of Public Administration and Governance Studies, Jatiya Kabi Kazi Nazrul Islam University, Trishal, Mymensingh, Bangladesh. Email: tanjilahmedtaj@gmail.com;

**Post-Graduate Student, Department of Public Administration and Governance Studies, Jatiya Kabi Kazi Nazrul Islam University, Trishal, Mymensingh, Bangladesh.


Citation

Ahmed, T., & Akter, T. (2021). Pandemic and Governance in Bangladesh: Case of field administration. Journal of Governance and Development, 2(1), 77–91. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.7303842


Union Digital Centres of Trishal Upazila: How Far Entrepreneur’s Financial Competency Is?

Shamima Akter*, Tanjil Ahmed**

Abstract

Union Digital Centre (UDC), an innovative ingenuity of local government authority, represents a predominant nexus for efficient service delivery in rural areas. It has stimulated Information Technology (IT) and provided other internet based needful public and private services to the millions of underserved people’s doorsteps at their convenience. By adopting this new dimension of entrepreneurship framework in rural economy, citizen friendly bottom-up development could be established. However, to introduce such set-up at periphery level, financial and technological support remains a big challenge. Hence, this study reveals the recent conditions and financial affairs of seven selected UDCs at Trishal Upazila. Both primary and secondary sources of data were collected from the studied area and in-depth interview of 23 individuals was taken in qualitative manner. It is observed that without generous financial supports it is very difficult to retain the financial solvency of the entrepreneurs. Sometimes, these massive financial liabilities, lack of logistic support, inadequate training and unskilled manpower are extensively responsible for gradual losing of interest to execute one stop shops services. Therefore, this study also suggested some necessary policy recommendations to strengthen UDC’s activities by successfully executing the Public Private Entrepreneurship model in studied area. Click here  to read the full manuscript 

Key Words: UDC; Local Government; Entrepreneurship; Financial Competency; IT


**Assistant Professor, Department of Public Administration, Jagannath University, Dhaka-1100

*Lecturer, Department of Public Administration and Governance Studies, Jatiya Kabi Kazi Nazrul Islam University, Trishal, Mymensingh, Bangladesh. Email: tanjilahmedtaj@gmail.com;


Citation

Akhter, S., & Ahmed, T. (2022). Union Digital Centres of Trishal Upazila: How far entrepreneur’s financial competency is? Social Sciences Review, 38(1), 133–156. https://doi.org/10.3329/ssr.v38i1.56528



The writer is a Prime Minister Gold Medalist

Covid-19 and Bangladesh: Impacts and initiatives

Tanjil Ahmed

The present world is passing through every moment of uncertainty. Without any war, riots-Third World War (TWR) is going on. All the countries of the world are simultaneously fighting against the pandemic Corona virus (Covid-19). On December 31, 2019 the first one was infected of pneumonia in the city of Wuhan in central China, later it was discovered as Novel Corona Virus named  Covid-19 and the suspected one’s had died on 11th January 2020 (BBC News). COVID-19 is a disease-causing virus called SARS-CoV-2 that has never been seen in human body before. (A2i, Mukthopaath). Although, the outbreak of the disease originates from China, the epidemic has spread throughout the world in a short time. So far, 2,145,512 people have been infected in 210 countries of the world, where 144,061 people have died and 545,637 people have been healed till April 16 (worldometers). However, first coronavirus cases confirmed in Bangladesh on March 7, where three tested were positive and two of them returnees from Italy. Conversely, the present situation in Bangladesh is in dire shape. The latest update (April 16) of coronavirus in Bangladesh is so far, 1572 people have been infected, more than 1130 are undergoing treatment, 49 are cured, 60 have died and more than 42529 are in home quarantine (Somoytv). The Corona virus has spread in Bangladesh mainly through migrants returning abroad. The government and administration of Bangladesh have already taken various plans and initiatives to prevent the Corona virus and are working to implement them. Yet, the corona virus has severely hit the country's economy, education, tourism industry, trade, culture and other sectors in the past one month. 

Effectiveness of E-Governance in Pandemic Management: Reality and Challenges in Bangladesh

Tanjil Ahmed


 The Nobel Coronavirus is leading the current era, neither the Trump nor Putin administration. The whole world is now hostage to this virus. The numbers of victims are increasing day by day and the numbers of death are increasing drastically. So far, the death toll from the corona virus has already exceeded two lakh (2, 03,704+) worldwide (worldometers). History call to mind that, in Russian flu of 1889 killed 3.5 lakh people within a year in the world. And in 1957, 1 lakh people died in the world by the Asian flu that spread from China. But now, the corona virus which has spread also from China has become more horrific and deadly.

According to current estimates, more than 6.5 lakh people may die (per day death 1697+ people) in Corona virus in a year in the world which may exceed the number of deaths from the Russian flu in 1889.

The picture of corona virus in Bangladesh is also horrible. According to the following figure, after testing 1,026 people in the first 20 days, the total number of infected people in Bangladesh was 48 where the rate of infected per 100 people was about 5 (4.67%), death rate is 5 (0.48%) and recover rate is 11(1.07%). Later, testing 15,859 people in the next 20 days, the total number of infected people in Bangladesh stood at 1,524 where the rate of infection in per 100 was about 10 people (9.60%),  death rate is 55 (0.34%) and recover rate is 38(0.23%) .

             Writer is a Prime Minister Gold Medalist 

An analysis of Six-Point Tanjil Ahmed


The Bengalis were not liberated even after 190 years of British rule (1757-1947) and exploitation after the death of Sirajuddaula, the last independent Nawab of Bengal. In 1947, after the emergence of Pakistan, a new chapter of exploitation, torture, and oppression began on us. Pakistan continues the oppression, exploitation, and injustice in all fields including language, economy, industry, education, health, agriculture, law, etc. (Professor, Professor, & Proddot, 2014). But Bengali is a nation of heroes and never learned to bow to injustice. It was as if the Awami Muslim League, i.e the Awami League, and innumerable brave leaders and activists, including Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the father of the nation, appeared in Bengal to give a real form to that consciousness (Rahman, 2017). The charismatic leader Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman who led from the outset to end the exploitation and oppression of West Pakistan and was imprisoned for 4675 days at different times for demanding the release of Bengalis (Staff, 2017).

In 1966, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, in consultation with the Bengali CSP officers, prepared the ‘Six-Point Charter’ for the Liberation of Bengal and Bengalis to bring Bangladesh forward politically. When the National Conference of Anti-Ayub Political Parties began on 5 February 1966, Maulana Bhasani and other political leaders withdrew themselves. But Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman joined the conference to raise a ‘Six-Point Demands’ as the Bengali Charter of Liberation like a hero (Moni, 2018).  After raising the six-point demands, Pakistani leaders were frightened to realize the flag of independent and sovereign Bengal. Because the Six-Point formula later took the form of independence. Analyzing the historic ‘Six-Point Formula or Demand’ it can be seen that the six-point had a very significant impact on the heroic struggle of Bangladesh.

Six Point Movement 

Photos From: Google

Six Point Movement 

Photos From: Google

The first phase of ‘Six-Point Formula’ claimed that the constitution was formulated based on the Lahore resolution to make Pakistan a true federation and there was talk of universal suffrage through the direct adult vote and the sovereignty of laws (Moni, 2018). Initially, it was the first step towards the liberation of Bengal and Bengalis where Sheikh Mujibur Rahman indirectly raised the issue of democracy and rule of law. Analysis of the administrative image of West Pakistan in 1966 shows that we had 35% access to law enforcement and 22.7% access to the Ministry of Home Affairs, which was less than the actual solicitation (Professor & Dr., 2015).

In the second phase of ‘Six-Point Formula’ appealed that only the defense of the country and foreign affairs will be under the federation government and all remaining matters will be under the jurisdiction of the States (Moni, 2018). Here too, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman implied at the liberation of the Bengalis from Pakistani exploitation and oppression.

In the third phase of the six-point formula, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman proposed the introduction of a separate but easily exchangeable currency for East and West Pakistan and proposed to the establishment of two separate regional banks. At the same time, he proposed also the introduction of a similar currency, where money laundering would be prevented and there would be two separate Reserve Bank systems for the two regions (Syed, 2018). Indeed, this was the third proposal to liberate the Bengalis from economic exploitation. This was because an analysis of the allocations from 1960-1961 to 1964-1965 showed that the total budget allocation for East Pakistan was only 6,480 million and where West Pakistan's allocation was almost 3 times that of 22,230 million (Professor & Dr., 2015). As a result, East Pakistan lagged several times behind West Pakistan in all areas of trade, commerce, industrial production, agriculture, and economy. Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman raised the third point to take these backward people forward. 

The fourth phase of ‘Six-Point Formula’, demanded that the power to levy and collect all kinds of taxes and levies will be in the hands of the regional government. The regional government will arrange for a certain portion of the collected revenue to be paid to the central government. Here, also, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman proposed a separate tax and rent policy to protect the agriculture and industry and economy of East Bengal from destruction by West Pakistan through increased taxes and rents. Note that in 1966, in the administrative figure of Pakistan, only nominal portions were allotted to East Pakistan as well as Bengalis in the fields of industry and agriculture which amounted to 25.7% and 21% respectively (Professor & Dr., 2015).

In the fifth phase of ‘Six-Point Formula’, it was proposed to keep separate accounts of foreign exchange and income of the two regions where the states will own their earned foreign currency and fee import and export trade will continue between the two regions. Also, they shall remit a fixed portion of the income to the Center at a rate equal to or equal to that prescribed by the Constitution. Essentially, to eliminate the huge disparity in income and expenditure and to ensure a fair distribution system between the two regions, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman made a fifth point demand.

And in the sixth phase, it proposed to form its own or paramilitary forces or regional armies for the regional security of East Pakistan. Originally, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman hinted to Pakistan about the military as well as the organizational strength of the Bengalis to achieve liberation.

However, the six-point movement had also far-reaching effects on the successive political developments in the then Pakistan. The success of the six-point movement had encouraged the conceited and corrupted Ayub Khan's dictatorial regime to falsely implicate him in the Agartala Conspiracy case. It evoked widespread enthusiasm in East Pakistan (M., 2008). Conversely, the importance of a six-point movement in the national life of Bengalis as well as in achieving our independence is immense where it was the prerequisite of the emergence of Bangladesh as an independent and sovereign state.

The writer is Prime Minister Gold Medalist and Student of Department of Public Administration and Governance Studies at Jatiya Kabi Kazi Nazrul Islam University, Trishal, Mymensingh. 


Covid-19 and Bangladesh: Critical Issues

Tamanna Akter

Not to say nothing about the pandemic at present. As the world faces a pandemic situation named Covid-19 (Corona Virus Disease 2019). On 31 December, when China formally announced that it is affected a novel virus called Covid-19, maximum countries of the world were careless. No one can imagine what are going to happen. However, within few days this virus spread out through the world and shaped as pandemic. The characteristics of this Corona virus are unknown that's why it is called novel virus. Maximum information about this virus is taken on the basis of hypothesis. All of the world's scientists are trying to uncover its life chain. They are constantly trying to make drugs and vaccines Covid-19. However, today I want to say about the Covid-19 situation in Bangladesh. On 8 March, Bangladesh is affected by Covid-19 through Italy return citizens. Still now 1572 people are affected by Covid-19 according to government statement. I think more people are affected behind this number. All countries including developed and developing are failed to combat against Covid-19. So please everyone should take this issue seriously.  Still now we don't take this issue seriously. People make jokes about this issue. Though there are many reasons of this unconscious like more people are backdated who always believe in fate. Many people think that their life is value less. I will say to mass people, please be aware and maintain govt. rules and home quarantine. Otherwise we will fall all and Bangladesh will turn to Death Valley.   However, l astonished to see that when our educated people especially leading persons don't take this issue seriously at first.  If the government ensured compulsory institutional quarantine of persons who come from abroad, today's condition was not seen. It could be possible in earlier to make Bhasanchar as an isolation center so that abroad return citizens could not mix with other people. I know this was very difficult for govt. because people weren't wanted to go quarantine under govt. supervision at new place. But now, as the army is being forced down, the people need to be separated at the earliest. Because, future condition will be worsen. If govt. of Bangladesh were taken and implemented effective initiatives as our country is developing, backdated and having illiterate people, present pandemic situation did not create.  Don’t mind I call illiterate to our people because we are nominally educated not natural. Our common sense is too low. Increased literacy rate doesn’t mean quality education, as it grows. As we have no sufficient doctor, treatment  equipment  like PPE, ventilator, testing kits and lab,  health budget, less humanity power, lack of modern technology, so we should be more conscious to overcome this pandemic with govt. effort. Bangladesh has overpopulated country in its small territory. If this pandemic is outbreak, it will not possible to recover. 

It is high time the govt. took necessary measures and implemented these measures strictly.  What will say about my country's people! They are so uncivilized and rude that they do not understand their safety and security.  They think that the government will do everything; they have no obligation to do. It’s time to pull up of our spearfish; otherwise they will have to go to the grave with relief and hatred. So don't mismanagement relief fund, it is the right of poor people. The government can directly assign the relief distribution activities to the armed forces. Still it can be argued further, if we took this virus seriously and took effective measures; today's situation was not happen. If our govt. expensed today's relief fund in past against Covid-19, it is no need to provide relief. No need to lock all districts.  And community transmission was not happen.  As we don't take available measures, we will suffer from corona epidemic, feminine, unemployment, economic slowdown etc. Now the govt. should ensure sufficient treatment elements like PPE, test Kits, ventilators immediately in order to fight against Covid-19 and tackle this present situation. The govt. also can train our doctors as early as possible. Every Upazila should be prepared for Covid-19 with testing Kits and lab so that every corona symptom patients is tested. As a result it is easy to identify corona patient. Every village and city should be locked so that none can go to another village at any way. It is necessary to make volunteer group which will help armed forces and local government in order to ensure corona free village and city. It is time the govt. took mission to make Corona free village and city. By doing this we can reach our ultimate goal "Covid-19 free country". Finally I just say to my country's people please let's be aware, stay home and ensure you and your country safety.


The writer is a student of Public Administration and Governance Studies , Jatiya kabi kazi Nazrul Islam Univerity, Trishal, Mymensingh