2-year jail for false claim of July victims

Staff Reporter :

The government has enacted a new ordinance introducing legal consequences for individuals who deliberately provide false or misleading information to fraudulently claim benefits as martyrs’ family members or wounded fighters of the July Uprising.

If found guilty, the offender may face up to two years’ imprisonment, a fine of up to BDT 200,000, or twice the amount of the financial assistance received.

Titled the “July Uprising Martyrs’ Families and Fighters’ Welfare and Rehabilitation Ordinance, 2025,” the decree was officially issued late Tuesday night.

Chapter Two of the ordinance outlines the establishment, structure, and responsibilities of the Department of the July Uprising, including staffing and operational guidelines. Chapter Four elaborates on offenses and penalties under the law.

According to the ordinance, any person who intentionally or knowingly submits false, distorted, or concealed information to claim benefits as a “martyr’s family member” or as a wounded participant without actually belonging to those categories commits an offense under this law.
Such false claims include access to medical, financial, or rehabilitation support.

The punishment for such offenses includes: A maximum of two years’ imprisonment, a maximum fine of BDT 200,000, or a fine equivalent to twice the amount of the falsely claimed benefit.