The National Sports Council (NSC) of Bangladesh has sparked widespread criticism after reinstating 95-year-old Khorshed Alam to the ad-hoc committee of the Bangladesh Rowing Federation. Alam, who previously served as general secretary for 46 years, had been removed earlier under a government reform directive barring long-serving officials from new committees. His sudden reappointment on December 7, without consultation with federation members, has raised questions about transparency and motives behind the decision.

Federation officials formally protested the move on December 11, citing Alam’s alleged involvement in financial irregularities and prolonged mismanagement that hindered the sport’s development. Former NSC executive director Kazi Nazrul Islam stated that he acted on higher directives, while others within the sports community suspect political influence and possible financial dealings behind the inclusion. Alam, however, denied all allegations, claiming his long service and prior NSC recognition justified his return.

The controversy underscores persistent governance issues in Bangladesh’s sports federations, where entrenched leadership and lack of accountability continue to impede progress in traditional sports like rowing and boat racing.