DHAKA, Oct 28, 2025 (BSS) - The Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) has issued a detailed clarification to counter the circulation of misleading information concerning a government official's participation in a reunion event organized by the Dhaka University Alumni Association UK (DUAAUK).

BIDA noted with deep concern that confusing interpretations of an official government letter (Memo No. 03.08.2690.068.25.001.25-503, dated October 19, 2025) had been spread on social media recently by an expatriate who reportedly lacked the ability to understand the official language and characteristics of the government document.

Tragically, BIDA added, some news media outlets published these confusing statements without proper verification, which amounts to an attempt to tarnish the image of a senior government official.

The clarification confirms that Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun was officially authorized to attend the DUAAUK reunion. 

Harun is identified as a former student of Dhaka University and was himself previously an expatriate in the United Kingdom.

The visit's primary objectives were to strengthen relationships with the expatriate alumni network and encourage them to invest in Bangladesh. 

BIDA confirmed that Ashik Chowdhury met with expatriate investors during his stay in the UK.

A key point of BIDA's clarification addresses the financial aspects of the trip, emphasizing that the visit imposed no financial responsibility on the government.

DUAAUK covered the complete cost of the visit. The government provided no financial assistance or allowance for this travel.

BIDA specifically clarified a standard administrative detail found in the official order-the mention of payment of salary and allowances in local currency.

This is described as a regular administrative procedure for all government officials travelling internationally and does not involve any additional government expenditure.

The official letter stipulated that the maximum duration of the approved trip was three days, including weekly holidays. 

During this period, the official remained under government duty and was subject to accountability according to applicable rules and regulations.

BIDA firmly stated that the entire visit was completed in full compliance with government rules and processes, asserting that it was not an opaque initiative.

BIDA strongly requested that the public and media refrain from spreading misleading, incomplete, or malicious information. 

BIDA urged respect for the transparency and dignity of the government process and asked that any future questions be directed straight to BIDA to avoid confusion.