Despite discrepancies between his National ID (NID) and birth registration records, Hossain Chowdhury has been serving at Gopalganj Science and Technology University (GSTU) for the past six years. Under existing regulations, inconsistencies in identity-related information are expected to create complications in recruitment and administrative procedures, yet the issue reportedly remained unnoticed for years.

Multiple university officials and employees said that a number of appointments were made through irregular practices during the tenure of the previous Awami League government. Allegations include securing jobs through manipulation while bypassing requirements related to certificates, age limits, approvals, and professional experience.

According to available information, Hossain Chowdhury is the brother-in-law of Mahamudur Rahman Ujjal Chowdhury, nephew of former Gopalganj district Awami League president Emdadul Haque. Ujjal Chowdhury is currently serving in the Public Administration Section of the Registrar’s Office at the university and also holds the post of member secretary of the Promotion Review Committee.

Students have expressed surprise and criticism that officials and employees aligned with the Awami League continue to hold key positions at the university even after the change in government.

Durjoy Shuvo, president of the Manda University unit of Chhatra Dal, said, “Illegal appointments must be identified and investigated, and action must be taken accordingly. However, no one should be harassed unnecessarily. That would contradict the ideals of the July movement.”

Belal Hossain Arian, coordinator of the July movement and convener of the now-dissolved Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, said, “Although the fall of authoritarianism has created new hope in the country, the conduct of some officials at GSTU still reflects the old authoritarian mindset. Power now seems to be turning into a tool for protecting personal interests, which is alarming for a university.”

Verification of Hossain Chowdhury’s records shows a discrepancy in his date of birth. His birth registration lists his birthdate as June 1, 1988, while his National ID records it as March 1, 1981, creating a seven-year difference.

Responding to the allegations, Hossain Chowdhury said, “I joined the job using my birth registration information and did not submit my National ID. The date on the National ID is incorrect.”

He said he has been in service for six years and applied for correction of the information about one and a half years ago, but could not say where the correction process currently stands.

Ujjal Chowdhury also acknowledged the familial relationship and said, “The administration has instructed me not to speak about employment-related matters. The administration is fully aware of the job-related issues.”

Azizur Rahman Shanto, one of the organizers of the July movement, said, “Students had high expectations from the new administration, but it is disappointing that teachers and officials involved in irregularities during the Awami League era are still holding important positions.”

University Registrar Md. Enamuzzaman declined to comment on the matter.

GSTU Faces Criticism Over Nepotism and Conflicting NID-Birth Records of Key Employee

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