The Ministry of Liberation War Affairs has cancelled the gazettes of 481 individuals identified as fake freedom fighters after nationwide verification conducted from August 2024 to March 2026, Minister Ahmed Aazam Khan told parliament on Sunday.
The information was disclosed during the first session of the 13th National Parliament on its eighth sitting day, with Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmad, Bir Bikram, presiding.
The minister was responding to a notice under Rule 71 submitted by Sylhet-3 MP Mohammed Abdul Malique.
In his notice, Abdul Malique said many fake freedom fighters had been added to official lists during the previous “fascist” government, both in his constituency and across the country. He said genuine freedom fighters had long been frustrated while some people had received state benefits by falsely claiming the title.
In response, Ahmed Aazam Khan said: “Bir Muktijoddhas (freedom fighters) are the nation’s finest sons. There is no such thing as a fake freedom fighter, but a few opportunists have fraudulently entered the lists.”
He added that the National Freedom Fighters’ Council (JAMUKA) subcommittee regularly reviews complaints and cancels certificates and gazettes immediately after verification.
The minister also said freedom fighters living abroad who have not yet received digital certificates or smart IDs will be provided with them after application.
On infrastructure, he said the South Surma Freedom Fighters’ Complex will be handed over soon, while construction and renovation work for the Balaganj and Fenchuganj complexes is under government planning.
Ahmed Aazam Khan added that he plans to visit historic Liberation War sites in Sylhet soon to gather local information and ensure proper recognition for genuine freedom fighters. He said the government remains committed to protecting their rights and benefits under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman.
