Hundreds of non-cadre officials and employees from various ministries staged a protest at Bangladesh’s Secretariat on Wednesday, demanding a 20% Secretariat allowance for all staff. Around 2:30 p.m., 300–400 employees gathered and marched to the third floor of the Finance Ministry, where they surrounded the office of the Finance Adviser. As of 4 p.m., demonstrators continued chanting slogans, calling for immediate approval of the allowance.

Protesters said the movement stemmed from long-standing frustration over unfulfilled promises, including ration benefits and a previously announced dearness allowance that was never implemented. They also criticized the government’s stance on not enforcing the new pay commission during its current term. A personal officer to a secretary explained that Secretariat employees often work extended hours alongside top officials but remain excluded from additional benefits available to other departments.

The standoff highlights growing discontent among mid- and lower-level government staff. Officials fear the unrest could spread if the Finance Ministry fails to address the demands promptly.