TDS Desk:

The Advisory Council has launched an investigation into bribery allegations against the senior secretary of the Ministry of Public Administration, particularly in relation to the appointment of deputy commissioners.

Three advisers have been assigned to conduct the inquiry.

Sharmin S Murshid, Adviser to the Ministry of Social Welfare and Ministry of Women and Child Affairs, confirmed this during a press conference at her ministry on Thursday (October 2).

The briefing was focused on activities related to the upcoming Durga Puja celebrations.

When asked if the government would investigate the bribery claims involving the senior secretary, Sharmin Murshid responded, “Yes, of course, the government will investigate. However, two points should be considered by the media. Firstly, how much of the widely circulated clip on social media is authentic, and how much could be AI-generated or manipulated? Ordinary people like us can’t always differentiate. The cabinet discussed the issues, and we are looking into the technical accuracy of the information shared.”

She further emphasised, “It must be investigated promptly, and we will ensure that happens.”

A vernacular daily in a report claimed to expose a massive scam over reshuffle in civil administration, implicating Mokhlesur and two joint secretaries, Ziauddin Ahmed and Ali Azam.

It suggested that sensitive WhatsApp conversations between the senior secretary and one of the joint secretaries revealed details about DC appointments and possible financial transactions. These screenshots, reportedly circulating within key state circles, have stirred concern within the administration.

The report also speculated that the appointments were intended to embarrass the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus, following the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government.

Some have viewed the claims as part of a broader conspiracy against the Yunus-led administration.