Bangladesh’s Ministry of Liberation War Affairs has initiated investigations into 79,000 alleged fake freedom fighters, following widespread allegations of fraudulent certificates and misuse of state benefits. The National Freedom Fighters Council (JAMUKA) confirmed that hearings are underway against those accused of obtaining certificates through false information. The ministry previously canceled 6,476 certificates, including 2,111 for age discrepancies and 71 for proven forgery. The issue gained renewed attention after former secretary Molla Wahiduzzaman was found to have obtained a fake certificate and fled to India.

According to ministry data, the number of listed freedom fighters has increased over the decades despite natural demographic decline. The first official list in 1986 contained 102,458 names, while successive governments expanded the list, with the current total reaching nearly 198,889. JAMUKA reported that many applicants claimed refugee status during the war and some attached falsified photos. The government has pledged to ensure genuine veterans are not mistakenly excluded.

Officials said the current administration, led by Tarique Rahman, has prioritized completing the investigation and organizing public hearings to finalize the verification process.