Government employees clashed with police in Dhaka on Friday, demanding immediate pay scale announcement Bangladesh. Protesters marched to Jamuna, where authorities used batons and tear gas, injuring at least three.
The ninth pay scale protest highlights growing frustrations among Bangladesh’s public sector workers amid economic pressures. Delays in implementing the commission’s recommendations could spark further unrest in the region, affecting governance stability during the interim period.
Government Employees Protest Bangladesh Details
Hundreds of government employees gathered at Shaheed Minar around 11:00 am on Friday, February 6, 2026. They marched towards Jamuna, the chief adviser’s residence. At Shahbagh, police set up barricades. Water cannons were deployed first. Protesters pushed forward. Talks failed. Police then used batons and tear gas. At least three protesters sustained injuries.
Deputy Commissioner Masud Alam stated police aimed to maintain order. He noted efforts to negotiate relocation. The action dispersed the crowd by early afternoon.
Protesters, under the Bangladesh Government Employees’ Demand Realisation Unity Council, demanded the ninth pay scale gazette. The pay commission submitted its report last month. Implementation via notification is possible now. They fear an elected government might delay it.
Jamuna Protest Bangladesh Timeline
The Jamuna protest Bangladesh began peacefully. Employees from various districts joined. By 11:30 am, the march reached Jamuna gates. Senior officials held discussions. Protesters refused to leave. Force was applied around noon. Sound grenades were also used, per eyewitness accounts.
This follows a human chain at Agargaon on Thursday. That event blocked roads briefly. No injuries reported then. Today’s escalation marks a shift.
Pay Scale Announcement Bangladesh Update
The Ninth National Pay Commission report was submitted on January 21, 2026. Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus received it at Jamuna. The 23-member body, led by Zakir Ahmed Khan, proposed major changes.
Recommendations include 20 pay grades. Minimum salary rises from Tk 8,250 to Tk 20,000. Maximum increases from Tk 78,000 to Tk 160,000. This equates to 100% to 142% hikes. Additional benefits cover health insurance and pension reforms.
The report estimates annual cost at Tk 106,000 crore. It affects 1.4 million employees and 900,000 pensioners. Partial rollout suggested from January 1, 2026. Full from July 1, 2026.
No gazette has been issued yet. Expectations were for January 31.
Background
Bangladesh’s pay scales are revised periodically. The eighth scale dates to 2015. Inflation has risen sharply since. Living costs increased. The interim government formed the commission in late 2024.
Earlier demands included a November 2025 ultimatum. Employees sought minimum Tk 35,000 and maximum Tk 140,000. The report adjusted ratios to 1:8. It retained 20 grades despite calls for fewer.
Public sector wages impact economy. They influence private sector norms in South Asia. Similar issues arise in neighbouring countries like Pakistan and India. Delays can lead to strikes.
The ninth pay scale protest stems from these gaps. Employees argue the current structure is outdated. Benefits like medical allowances need uplift. The commission addressed some, including for disabled children.
Government data shows public expenditure at Tk 131,000 crore currently. The hike adds pressure. Revenue collection is weak. Debt levels are high.
What’s Next
Authorities may form an implementation committee. The report calls for one. It would review allowances and structures.
Protesters vow more actions if no progress.
The interim government faces multiple fronts. Economic reforms are ongoing. Elections loom. Resolving the ninth pay scale protest could ease tensions.
Union leaders seek dialogue. Police remain on alert in Dhaka.
In conclusion, the ninth pay scale protest underscores urgent needs for fair compensation in Bangladesh’s public service.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, February 6th, 2026
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