16 BIWTA, BIWTC staff summarily transferred over ‘unauthorised absence’

Of them, 13 are from the BIWTA, and three from BIWTC

The shipping ministry has ordered the transfer of 16 officials and employees across two agencies after they were found to have been absent from duty without authorisation.

State Minister for Shipping Md Razib Ahsan ordered the transfers after evidence of absenteeism was found against them, according to a media statement issued on Friday.

He recently inspected the offices of different departments and organisations under the ministry in Barishal and Dhaka.

Those penalised were working under the Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority (BIWTA) and Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Corporation (BIWTC).

Thirteen of them were employed under the BIWTA, and three under the BIWTC.

Besides pointing out the absences without prior office approval, the state minister observed many arriving late during his visits.

He immediately expressed resentment over the incident and directed authorities to take administrative action over neglect of duty and breach of discipline.

Ahsan instructed all employees of the ministry and its subordinate departments to be present at the office on time and work with dedication and responsibility.

At the same time, he warned that such surprise inspections will continue in future to ensure discipline, accountability and quality of service in government departments.