Staff Correspondent:

Independence Award will be conferred this year based on merit, rising above partisan and group considerations, said Law Adviser Professor Asif Nazrul on Sunday.

The awards are being given to deserving people who have made significant contributions in their respective fields, Asif Nazrul, a member of the National Awards Advisory Committee, told reporters after attending the committee with Education Adviser Dr Wahiduddin Mahmud in the chair.

This year, less than 10 people will receive Swadhinata Padak (Independence Award), Bangladesh’s highest civilian award, as recognition of their contributions to the country, he said.

Criticising the previous government’s role in selecting controversial persons and organisations for the award, he said the prestigious award was conferred on an organisation like Rapid Action Battalion. “It is the highest award in our national life.”

“Realising the greatness of the award (Independence Award), we have recommended all such names under the leadership of Sir (Wahiduddin Mahmud) rising above party and group considerations.,” he said.

Adviser Wahiduddin said their recommendation for the Independence Award will go to the Advisory Council and then the name will be revealed.

Last year, 10 people received the country’s prestigious award.