CA Urges Reform to Stop Scams, Prioritise the Vulnerable

Chief Adviser joined a meeting with senior officials of the Department of Social Services at the State Guest House Jamuna.

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus has called on the Department of Social Services to urgently reform its outdated systems and improve digital transparency to ensure benefits reach the most vulnerable.

In a meeting with senior officials at the State Guest House Jamuna today, he directed the department to prioritise services for senior citizens and women, and to eliminate inefficiencies and scams in benefit distribution.

“This ministry still runs on a backdated model from 2013. It must be updated without delay,” said Prof Yunus.

He expressed deep concern over the misuse of the allowance system, noting that political interference had led to unfair distribution.

“Many individuals received allowances illegally due to political influence. Such discrimination must stop,” he said.

To prevent fraud, he recommended aligning all disbursements with the National ID (NID) system.

“Allowances should be based on the age listed on the NID – that’s the only way to ensure accuracy,” he added.

Prof Yunus also called for a digital transformation of the ministry, proposing a mobile app that would consolidate all services and information.

“People shouldn’t have to struggle to find out what help they can get,” he said.

Highlighting the importance of inclusivity, he urged that girls be prioritised in all skill-building and empowerment programmes under the ministry.

The meeting also discussed misinformation issues, outdated administration, and limited access to essential services. It was attended by Social Service Adviser Sharmeen S Murshid, SDG Coordinator Lamiya Morshed, Principal Secretary M Siraz Uddin Miah, and other senior officials of the Ministry of Social Welfare.