Head of the White Paper Drafting Committee, Dr Debapriya Bhattacharya, stated that the committee's task was to analyse the mechanisms of corruption, not to identify or apprehend individuals involved.
He clarified that the recently published white paper does not aim to single out any individual for blame.
Speaking at a press conference organised by the committee on Monday (2 December), at the Planning Ministry in Agargaon, Dhaka, Dr Bhattacharya presented a detailed report on the corruption during the 15-year tenure of the Awami League government.
“This white paper was crafted beyond the usual academic methodologies,” Dr Bhattacharya explained.
“We utilised data deemed relevant and engaged in discussions with both domestic and international experts. The intellectual property of this document does not rest with us—it belongs to the government.”
The committee was composed of 12 renowned economists and was designed to be representative, he revealed.
“Our focus was not on individuals or institutions but rather on the overall processes of corruption. The committee’s role was to discuss the mechanisms of malpractice, not to apprehend those responsible,” he elaborated.
Dr Bhattacharya also emphasised the voluntary nature of the endeavour.
“Every member of the committee worked without any remuneration. Over three months, they laboured tirelessly, without claiming a single penny as sitting allowance for the numerous meetings held,” he said.
He added that had the white paper been drafted with the assistance of foreign consultants, the process would have incurred a minimum cost of Tk25 crores.
“This committee undertook this initiative selflessly as a contribution to the nation, setting an example of service for the country’s benefit,” Dr Bhattacharya remarked.
The white paper will serve as a resource for the government and aims to offer insights into the systemic issues of corruption that have plagued governance over the past decade and a half.
