Part I: Table of Contents

Article 1: Name and Slogan of the Organization

Article 2: Nature and Characteristics of the Organization

Article 3: Office of the Organization

Article 4: Area of Operation

Article 5: Description of the Organization’s Logo/Monogram

Article 6: Aims and Objectives

Article 7: Vision

Article 8: Eligibility and Rules for Membership

Article 9: Categories of Membership

Article 10: Cancellation of Membership

Article 11: Resignation from Membership

Article 12: Rights of Members

Article 13: Filling Vacancies and Reinstatement of Membership

Article 14: Organizational Structure

Article 15: Structure of the Executive Committee

Article 16: Duties and Powers of the Executive Committee Members

Article 17: Formation of Sub-Committees

Article 18: Ad-hoc Committee

Article 19: Recruitment Procedure

Article 20: Matters Relating to the Organization’s Fund

Article 21: Financial Management

Article 22: Foreign Assistance/Donations

Article 23: Loan Repayment

Article 24: Audit

Article 25: Miscellaneous

Article 26: Types of Meetings and Rules of Meetings

Article 27: Election Procedure

Article 28: Election Commission

Article 29: Voting Procedure

Article 30: Miscellaneous

Article 31: Amendment, Revision and Addition to the Constitution

Article 32: Supremacy of Laws and Regulations

Article 33: Dissolution of the Organization

Part II: Introduction

Preamble

With the motto “Committed to Spreading the Light,” a group of dedicated individuals came together under one platform with the noble objective of serving humanity. This Foundation is the continuation of that collective endeavor. The driving force of this organization is its unwavering commitment.

With the wholehearted support and cooperation of people from different regions of the country, and in compliance with the laws and regulations of the Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh, this organization was established on 28 December 2018 under the name “Alok Kunjo Foundation BD” to carry out social welfare activities.

Article 1

Name and Slogan of the Organization

The name of the organization in Bangla shall be “আলোক কুঞ্জ ফাউন্ডেশন বিডি”, and in English it shall be known as **”Alok Kunjo Foundation BD” (abbreviated as AKFBD). The official slogan of the organization shall be “Committed to Spreading the Light.”

Article 2

Nature and Characteristics of the Organization

This organization is a completely non-communal, non-political, non-profit, voluntary, social, and public welfare-oriented organization.

In the future, the organization shall be registered as a voluntary social welfare organization under the Voluntary Social Welfare Agencies (Registration and Control) Ordinance, 1961 and the Rules, 1962 administered by the Department of Social Services. The organization shall strictly comply with all applicable laws, rules, and regulations of the Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh.

Article 3

Office of the Organization

(a) Head Office:

House No. 01, Road No. 09, Block-D, Mirpur-1, Dhaka, Bangladesh.

(b)

The Executive Committee may, by its decision, relocate the Head Office temporarily or permanently within Dhaka City.

(c)

Subject to the financial capacity of the organization, branch offices may be established in any district of Bangladesh in owned or rented premises. Such a decision shall require the approval of at least two-thirds (2/3) of the Executive Committee members. Otherwise, the decision of the majority of the Advisory Council shall be considered final.

Article 4

Area of Operation

The activities of the organization shall be conducted throughout Bangladesh.

Subject to the approval of the Department of Social Services and/or the competent authority, the activities of the organization may also be extended outside Bangladesh.

Article 5

Description of the Organization’s Logo/Monogram

The organization shall have its own official logo/monogram, which shall represent its identity and be used in all official activities and communications.

Article 6

Aims and Objectives

The aims and objectives of the Organization are to promote the social, cultural, and economic development of the people of Bangladesh; improve the quality of life of orphans, helpless, poor, and underprivileged people; create sustainable employment opportunities; preserve the country’s traditional language, literature, and culture; protect the environment and human rights; and establish a grassroots movement dedicated to serving the nation and humanity.

  1. To promote awareness among the people for ensuring the social, cultural, and economic development of Bangladesh; to preserve development infrastructures; prevent anti-development activities; review development budgets; identify development opportunities; prepare and submit reports to the appropriate authorities; and promote grassroots development initiatives.
  2. To work for the welfare and development of persons with disabilities, orphans, and street children.
  3. To establish orphanages, educational institutions for orphan children, and old-age homes for elderly citizens.
  4. To encourage and support creative activities in literature, culture, sports, entertainment, and related fields by organizing competitions and awarding deserving participants.
  5. To recognize and honor distinguished individuals for their outstanding contributions to society.
  6. To organize blood donation programs and assist critically ill patients in obtaining blood.
  7. To provide assistance in disaster prevention, relief, rescue, rehabilitation, and post-disaster recovery programs.
  8. To provide free clothing, Eid gifts, financial assistance, technological support, and other welfare services to underprivileged people for overall social development.
  9. To promote a drug-free society through healthy and disciplined recreational and cultural activities.
  10. To establish and strengthen communication and cooperation among members and well-wishers of Alok Kunjo living both at home and abroad.
  11. To promote mutual cooperation, brotherhood, unity, harmony, and social cohesion among all members.
  12. To organize Eid reunions, seminars, conferences, exhibitions, sports, cultural programs, get-together events, and other social activities for members.
  13. To provide books, educational materials, scholarships, and financial assistance to poor and meritorious students.
  14. To provide legal assistance and, where necessary, seek judicial remedies against illegal prostitution, trafficking of women and children, kidnapping, and related criminal activities.
  15. To promote agricultural development by encouraging farmers to adopt modern farming techniques; provide agricultural training; ensure access to quality seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, and other agricultural inputs at affordable prices; establish cold storage facilities; support preservation and marketing of agricultural products; establish demonstration farms; promote beekeeping, sericulture, poultry, fisheries, goat and cattle farming; arrange training for unemployed youth and farmers; and lease, purchase, or permanently acquire government-owned land for agricultural development where necessary.
  16. To implement poverty alleviation programs for landless, homeless, destitute, and low-income people; and provide institutional and vocational education to unemployed youth, women, and widows to create employment opportunities.
  17. To raise public awareness against anti-social activities, drug abuse, and smoking; organize meetings, seminars, rallies, and campaigns to observe national and international days; promote awareness against child marriage, polygamy, eve-teasing, dowry, and violence against women; encourage marriage registration; undertake relief and rehabilitation programs during disasters and epidemics; combat superstition, social injustice, and criminal activities through social and cultural initiatives; and arrange the burial of unidentified deceased persons.
  18. To undertake human resource development programs, establish vocational training centers, computer and data-entry institutes, and electrical and electronics training facilities to improve socio-economic development and employment opportunities.
  19. To promote small and cottage industries by creating entrepreneurs; provide training in local and international cooking, Nakshi Kantha embroidery, quilting, block printing, batik, handicrafts, and other income-generating skills, particularly for women.
  20. To cooperate with other organizations for the successful implementation of development activities and establish working relationships with government, non-government, national, and international organizations, subject to approval from the relevant authorities.
  21. To raise awareness and undertake practical measures for the prevention and treatment of life-threatening communicable diseases, including cancer, HIV/AIDS, plague, Hepatitis-B, viral diseases, SARS, and similar illnesses.
  22. To promote the use of arsenic-free and chemically safe drinking water; undertake awareness and prevention programs; identify affected areas and tube wells by determining harmful arsenic levels in drinking water.
  23. To lease, purchase, or permanently acquire government-owned land, vested property, and Waqf property for implementing agricultural and other public welfare programs in the interest of the Organization.
  24. To publish and disseminate books, newsletters, magazines, posters, banners, cards, calendars, and other publications through print, electronic, and digital media; establish newspapers, magazines, radio, television, and other communication platforms in accordance with the laws of Bangladesh; and, where necessary, document crimes, corruption, and irregularities through photographs and video recordings and submit such evidence to the appropriate authorities in accordance with the law.
  25. To undertake welfare and rehabilitation programs for visually impaired persons, elderly people, released prisoners, mentally challenged individuals, and other disadvantaged groups, along with any other development initiatives deemed beneficial for society.

Additional Programs

In addition to the above objectives, the Executive Committee may adopt complementary and time-appropriate programs consistent with the national development agenda, including:

  • Elimination of unemployment and promotion of self-employment.
  • Organizing motivational classes.
  • Providing vocational training with certificates.
  • Providing micro-credit support.
  • Supervising development projects.
  • Providing job information and career guidance.
  • Arranging tutoring and accommodation for students.
  • Organizing social, national, and international events.
  • Participating in social welfare activities.
  • Promoting cooperative initiatives among members.
  • Organizing recreational programs.
  • Encouraging youth participation in voluntary social service.
  • Maintaining cordial relationships with other social organizations.

    Article 7

    Vision

    To inspire the youth with moral and ethical values, encourage them to participate in social welfare activities, build a drug-free and unemployment-free nation, and cultivate a spirit of compassion and responsibility toward orphans, the poor, and underprivileged people.

    Part III: Membership

    Article 8

    Eligibility and Rules for Membership

    Any person interested in becoming a member of the Organization must meet the following qualifications:

    • Must be a citizen of Bangladesh by birth.
    • Must agree to pay the prescribed admission fee, monthly subscription, and other fees determined by the Foundation.
    • Must be at least 18 (eighteen) years of age.
    • Must be willing to work for the welfare of the Organization and abide by its Constitution.
    • Must be of sound mind and good moral character. Persons declared mentally unsound or of immoral character shall not be eligible for membership.
    • Membership shall be granted subject to the approval of the Executive Committee.
    • Must uphold the spirit of the Independence of Bangladesh and the Liberation War.

    Applicants for membership shall submit the prescribed application form along with one (01) recent passport-size color photograph and one (01) photocopy of the National Identity Card or Birth Registration Certificate.

    Article 9

    Categories of Membership

    The Organization shall have the following four (04) categories of membership:

    1. Founder Member
    2. Life Member
    3. Donor Member
    4. General Member

    9.1 Founder Member

    Individuals who were involved in the establishment of the Organization shall be recognized as Founder Members. They shall play a leading role in all organizational decisions. Although no specific subscription shall be fixed for Founder Members, their contributions shall not be less than those payable by General Members. Founder Members shall have the right to vote and to participate in the election of the Executive Committee.

    9.2 Life Member

    Any philanthropist or social worker who supports the objectives of the Organization and complies with its Constitution may become a Life Member by paying an admission fee of BDT 100 (One Hundred Taka) and making a one-time contribution of at least BDT 20,000 (Twenty Thousand Taka) or an equivalent amount in cash or assets, subject to the approval of the Executive Committee.

    Life Members may participate in all organizational activities but shall not have the right to vote or contest in Executive Committee elections.

    9.3 Donor Member

    Any person may become a Donor Member by paying an admission fee of BDT 100 (One Hundred Taka) and an annual contribution of at least BDT 6,000 (Six Thousand Taka) or an equivalent amount.

    Donor Members may participate in all activities of the Organization but shall not have the right to vote or contest in Executive Committee elections.

    9.4 General Member

    Any individual from any part of Bangladesh who is willing to work for the welfare of the Organization, agrees to abide by this Constitution, regularly pays the prescribed annual subscription and other dues, and submits the prescribed application shall be eligible to become a General Member, subject to the approval of the Executive Committee.

    The admission fee for a General Member shall be BDT 100 (One Hundred Taka), and the annual membership fee shall be BDT 1,000 (One Thousand Taka).

    General Members shall have the right to vote and to participate in the election of the Executive Committee.

    The Executive Committee shall have the authority to increase or decrease the admission fee and membership subscription from time to time by its decision.

    Article 10

    Cancellation of Membership

    Membership may be cancelled under any of the following circumstances:

    a) Failure to pay the annual membership subscription for two (02) consecutive years.

    b) Remaining inactive or failing to participate in the activities of the Organization for six (06) consecutive months.

    c) Being found guilty of any act contrary to the laws of the State or the Constitution of the Organization.

    d) Engaging in activities that are against the interests of the Organization or cause financial loss to the Organization.

    e) In all cases, the decision of the Executive Committee, whether unanimous or by majority vote, shall be final.

    f) Voluntary resignation from membership, provided that such resignation is approved by the Executive Committee.

    g) Death or conviction by a court for a moral offence.

    h) The Executive Committee and the Advisory Council shall have the authority to expel any member for reasonable or unavoidable causes.

    i) Absence from three (03) consecutive Executive Committee meetings without valid reason.

    j) Unlawfully retaining or withholding valuable records or documents of the Organization and thereby obstructing its activities.

    k) Conduct, behavior, attitude, or activities contrary to the interests of the Organization.

    l) Being declared mentally unsound or legally incompetent.

    m) Being declared bankrupt by a competent court.

    n) Conviction by a criminal court due to mental incapacity or moral turpitude.

    o) Failure to perform the responsibilities assigned by the Organization.

    p) Misappropriation of the Organization’s funds or involvement in illegal fundraising.

    q) Acting in violation of the Constitution or abusing authority in organizational activities.

    r) Issuing statements on behalf of the Organization to the press, meetings, seminars, or other public forums without prior approval of the Executive Committee.

    s) Damaging the voluntary, non-political, or non-profit reputation of the Organization.

    t) Collecting donations or subscriptions illegally in the name of the Organization or contrary to its Constitution.

    u) Permanently leaving the operational area of the Organization.

    Article 11

    Resignation

    a) Any member of the Executive Committee or any General Member wishing to resign shall submit a written resignation stating the reasons, addressed to the President or the General Secretary.

    b) The President and the General Secretary, with the unanimous approval of the Executive Committee, may accept or reject the resignation. In the case of members of the Advisory Council, the Advisory Council shall resolve the matter independently.

    Article 12

    Rights of Members

    a) Founder Members and General Members shall have the right to vote and to express their opinions on important organizational matters.

    b) Founder Members and General Members shall elect the Executive Committee from among the General Members.

    c) Founder Members and General Members shall have the right to submit opinions, recommendations, and proposals for the development of the Organization and society.

    d) Founder Members and General Members shall approve the following matters:

    1. Amendment, revision, modification, and addition to the Constitution.
    2. Annual activity report.
    3. Annual financial statements and budget.
    4. Formation of the Executive Committee.
    5. Exercise of voting rights.

    Article 13

    Filling of Vacancies and Reinstatement of Membership

    (a) Filling of Vacancies

    If any position in the Executive Committee, General Council, or Advisory Council becomes vacant, the vacancy shall be filled by a decision of the Executive Committee.

    (b) Reinstatement of Membership

    A person whose membership has been cancelled may apply for reinstatement by submitting a written application to the President, paying all outstanding membership dues, and providing a written undertaking that he or she will not commit any further violations.

    The application shall be considered at a meeting of the Executive Committee, and if approved, the applicant’s membership shall be reinstated.

    Part IV: Organizational Structure

    Article 14

    Organizational Structure

    For the effective and efficient management of the Organization, the following three (03) governing bodies shall be established:

    a) General Council

    b) Executive Committee

    c) Advisory Council

    (a) General Council: Composition, Duties and Powers

    The General Council shall consist of all members, giving priority to the Founder Members.

    The General Council shall be the supreme authority and the backbone of the Organization. It shall elect the Executive Committee for a three (03)-year term in accordance with this Constitution.

    The General Council shall supervise the performance of the Executive Committee and may take appropriate action if the Committee fails to discharge its responsibilities properly.

    The General Council shall approve the annual income and expenditure statements, annual budget, amendments to the Constitution, and annual action plan.

    (b) Executive Committee: Composition, Duties and Powers

    The Executive Committee shall consist of twenty-one (21) members elected by the General Council for a three (03)-year term.

    The Executive Committee shall be responsible for the day-to-day administration of the Organization, including approval of memberships, expulsion of members for valid reasons, reinstatement of members, maintenance of financial records, implementation of organizational activities, preparation of the annual budget, conduct of annual audits, formulation and execution of annual work plans, liaison with government and non-government organizations, implementation of the Organization’s aims and objectives, and acting as the principal representative of the Organization.

    (c) Advisory Council

    The Advisory Council may be formed by the Executive Committee with distinguished and widely respected individuals whose knowledge, wisdom, and experience will strengthen the organizational structure, support the implementation of activities, and provide guidance in resolving unforeseen or difficult situations.

    The number of Advisory Council members shall not exceed the number of Executive Committee office bearers.

    The members of the Advisory Council may also serve as the Election Commission of the Organization.

    Article 15

    Structure of the Executive Committee

    The Executive Committee shall consist of twenty-one (21) members as follows:

    1. President – 1
    2. Vice President – 2
    3. General Secretary – 1
    4. Joint General Secretary – 2
    5. Organizing Secretary – 1
    6. Joint Organizing Secretary – 1
    7. Treasurer – 1
    8. Joint Treasurer – 1
    9. Office Secretary – 1
    10. Joint Office Secretary – 1
    11. Publicity, Publications and Literary Secretary – 1
    12. Women and Children Affairs Secretary – 1
    13. Law and Human Rights Secretary – 1
    14. International Relations Secretary – 1
    15. Executive Members – 6

    Total Members: 21

    Article 16

    Duties and Powers of the Executive Committee Officers

    16.01 President

    a) The President shall be the chief executive head of the Organization.

    b) The President shall preside over all meetings of the Organization.

    c) No resolution shall be approved without the President’s signature.

    d) The President shall have full authority to conduct meetings.

    e) The President shall perform all duties necessary for the welfare and interests of the Organization.

    f) In the event of an equality of votes, the President shall exercise a casting vote.

    g) The President may convene emergency meetings whenever necessary.

    h) The President shall determine the policies and activities of the Organization based on the opinions of the Executive Committee.

    i) In urgent circumstances, the President, in consultation with the Advisory Council, the General Secretary, and the Vice Presidents, may amend, modify, or revise the Constitution, provided that at least two-thirds (2/3) of the Advisory Council members approve such amendment. The amendment must subsequently be placed before the General Council for final approval in accordance with this Constitution.

    j) If the office of the President becomes permanently vacant and no Vice President is available, the Executive Committee shall appoint an Acting President from among its members until a new President is elected by the General Council at the earliest opportunity.

    16.02 Vice President

    a) The Vice President shall be regarded as the second-highest officer of the Organization.

    b) The Vice President shall assist the President in all official duties.

    c) In the absence of the President, the Vice President shall preside over meetings.

    d) The Vice President may exercise the powers of the President in accordance with this Constitution during the President’s absence.

    e) The Vice President shall assist in the amendment, revision, and modification of the Constitution.

    f) The Vice President shall also perform other duties assigned by the President.

    16.03 General Secretary

    a) The General Secretary shall serve as the Chief Executive Officer of the Organization.

    b) The General Secretary shall sign all official correspondence and communications on behalf of the Organization.

    c) The General Secretary shall issue notices of meetings under the direction of the President.

    d) At the Annual General Meeting, the General Secretary, in cooperation with the Treasurer, shall present the annual report, annual budget, annual financial statements, and annual action plan for approval.

    e) The General Secretary shall execute agreements on behalf of the Organization and represent the Organization with the approval of the President whenever necessary.

    f) The General Secretary shall coordinate the implementation of organizational activities, programs, projects, and the work of the Executive Committee.

    g) The General Secretary shall maintain all correspondence, documents, records, and official information of the Organization.

    h) Subject to the approval of the Executive Committee, the General Secretary shall have the authority to recruit, appoint, contract, and dismiss part-time employees for the proper administration of the Organization.

    i) The General Secretary shall ensure that the minutes of all meetings are properly recorded and preserved.

    j) The General Secretary shall maintain communication, consultation, and coordination with all Executive Committee members and General Members.

    k) The General Secretary shall countersign the cash book and approve expenditure vouchers.

    l) In consultation with the President, the General Secretary shall determine the date, time, venue, and agenda of meetings and arrange for the issuance of meeting notices.

    m) The General Secretary shall supervise the activities of other office bearers.

    n) The General Secretary shall play a leading role in promoting the welfare of the Organization and may convene emergency meetings whenever necessary.

    o) The General Secretary shall be accountable to the Executive Committee for all official duties and responsibilities.

    16.04 Joint General Secretary

    a) The Joint General Secretary shall assist the General Secretary in all official duties.

    b) In the absence of the General Secretary, the Joint General Secretary shall perform the duties of the General Secretary.

    c) The Joint General Secretary shall perform any other duties assigned by the Executive Committee.

    16.05 Organizing Secretary

    a) The Organizing Secretary shall take necessary initiatives to ensure the effective functioning of the Organization.

    b) If organizational activities become inactive, the Organizing Secretary shall identify the causes and consult with the President and General Secretary to determine appropriate corrective measures.

    c) The Organizing Secretary shall monitor members’ attendance and activities and inform the Organization of any actions contrary to its interests.

    d) The Organizing Secretary shall work continuously to strengthen the Organization.

    e) If the Organization faces any threat, the Organizing Secretary shall immediately inform the President.

    f) The Organizing Secretary shall work to maintain organizational discipline and expand the Organization.

    g) The Organizing Secretary shall take necessary measures to increase membership and strengthen branch committees.

    h) The Organizing Secretary shall present newly formed branches to the Executive Committee for approval.

    i) The Organizing Secretary shall coordinate with the Executive Committee in assigning responsibilities to members.

    16.06 Joint Organizing Secretary

    a) The Joint Organizing Secretary shall assist the Organizing Secretary.

    b) In the absence of the Organizing Secretary, the Joint Organizing Secretary shall perform the duties of the Organizing Secretary.

    c) The Joint Organizing Secretary shall perform other duties assigned by the Executive Committee.

    16.07 Treasurer

    a) The Treasurer shall be the head of the Finance Department of the Organization.

    b) The Treasurer shall collect membership fees and receive donations from individuals and institutions.

    c) The Treasurer shall identify future sources of income and submit proposals to the Executive Committee.

    d) The Treasurer shall prepare the annual financial report and present it at the Annual General Meeting for approval.

    e) The Treasurer shall be responsible for all financial affairs of the Organization.

    f) The Treasurer shall play an active role in strengthening the Organization’s financial resources.

    g) The Treasurer shall be generally responsible for maintaining all financial records relating to income and expenditure.

    h) The Treasurer shall maintain accurate financial accounts and ensure that all funds are spent solely for the purposes of the Organization.

    i) The Treasurer shall maintain and sign the cash book.

    j) All collected funds shall be deposited into the Organization’s bank account within three (03) days of receipt.

    k) The Treasurer shall arrange for the annual audit of the Organization.

    l) The Treasurer shall perform additional duties assigned by the President and the General Secretary.

    m) No financial transaction shall be made without proper debit or credit vouchers, and every payment voucher must bear the signature of the General Secretary.

    n) The Treasurer shall be accountable to the Executive Committee for all financial matters.

    16.08 Joint Treasurer

    a) The Joint Treasurer shall assist the Treasurer in performing all financial duties.

    b) In the absence of the Treasurer, the Joint Treasurer shall perform the duties and responsibilities of the Treasurer.

    c) The Joint Treasurer shall perform any other duties assigned by the Executive Committee.

    16.09 Office Secretary

    a) The Office Secretary shall preserve all records, reports, correspondence, office documents, and administrative matters of the Organization.

    b) With the approval of the President or the General Secretary, the Office Secretary shall notify all members of meetings and official events.

    c) The Office Secretary shall record the speeches and opinions of guests and participants at meetings and events and, where appropriate, publish them in the form of press releases or communicate them to the members.

    d) The Office Secretary shall be responsible for the safe custody of all official documents and records of the Organization.

    16.10 Joint Office Secretary

    a) The Joint Office Secretary shall assist the Office Secretary in performing official duties.

    b) In the absence of the Office Secretary, the Joint Office Secretary shall perform the duties of the Office Secretary.

    c) The Joint Office Secretary shall perform any other duties assigned by the Executive Committee.

    16.11 Publicity, Publications and Literary Secretary

    a) The Publicity, Publications and Literary Secretary shall disseminate official notices, posters, publications, and statements issued by the Organization among its members.

    b) The Secretary shall prepare publication designs, collect information, edit and proofread publications issued by the Organization.

    c) The Secretary shall submit proposals to the Executive Committee for strengthening the public image and publicity of the Organization.

    d) The Secretary shall arrange press conferences, media briefings, and roundtable discussions whenever necessary.

    e) The Secretary shall ensure effective publicity and media coverage of all organizational programs and events.

    f) The Secretary shall be responsible for promoting the Organization through social media and other digital communication platforms.

    g) The Secretary shall arrange for the publication of organizational news in newspapers and other media and shall oversee all official publications of the Organization.

    16.12 Women and Children Affairs Secretary

    a) The Women and Children Affairs Secretary shall organize and support poor, illiterate, helpless, and oppressed women and report their issues to the Executive Committee.

    b) The Secretary shall implement all programs relating to women and children approved by the Executive Committee.

    c) The Secretary shall play a leading role in raising public awareness against violence against women and children.

    16.13 Law and Human Rights Secretary

    a) The Law and Human Rights Secretary shall be responsible for the legal affairs of the Organization.

    b) The Secretary shall ensure that members comply with the Constitution of the Organization.

    c) The Secretary shall immediately inform the President of any legal notice or legal matter involving the Organization.

    16.14 Executive Members

    Executive Members shall actively participate in, supervise, and provide support for all activities and programs of the Organization.

    16.15 International Relations Secretary

    a) The International Relations Secretary shall collect information and data relating to international affairs.

    b) The Secretary shall maintain knowledge of international organizations and keep the Executive Committee informed of relevant developments and activities.

    c) The Secretary shall take initiatives to strengthen the participation and contribution of expatriate Bangladeshis in the activities of the Organization.

    16.16 Miscellaneous

    a) In times of hardship or emergency, all members, including the Executive Committee, shall make every effort to stand beside fellow members.

    b) Every member shall remain committed to the continuous development and welfare of the Organization.

    c) All members, including the Executive Committee, shall perform their duties with honesty, integrity, and selflessness.

    d) Any complaint, grievance, or suggestion shall be submitted to the Executive Committee.

    e) Every member shall pay the prescribed monthly membership fee on time.

    f) Members shall refrain from any internal conflict or dispute that may adversely affect the Organization.

    Article 17

    Formation of Sub-Committees

    For the implementation of any program, special assignment, or development project, the Executive Committee, with the approval of the Advisory Council, may establish one or more Sub-Committees consisting of the required number of members from the Executive Committee and the General Council and assign them specific responsibilities.

    A Sub-Committee shall automatically cease to exist upon completion of the assigned task.

    Each Sub-Committee shall be accountable to the Executive Committee for the performance of its assigned duties.

    Article 18

    Ad-hoc Committee

    If, for any reason, it is not possible to hold the election of the Executive Committee within the prescribed time, the General Council shall constitute a three-member Ad-hoc Committee consisting of:

    • One Convener
    • One Member Secretary
    • One Member

    The Convener shall act as the head of the Committee.

    The Ad-hoc Committee shall follow all applicable election rules and shall organize the election of a new Executive Committee through nomination, support, or secret ballot within sixty (60) days.

    The newly elected Executive Committee shall assume office within fourteen (14) days after the election.

    No member of the Ad-hoc Committee shall be eligible to contest the Executive Committee election.

    Article 19

    Recruitment Procedure

    Whenever it becomes necessary to appoint officers, employees, or trainers for the effective operation of the Organization, the Executive Committee shall establish a five-member Recruitment Committee.

    The General Secretary shall serve as the Member Secretary of the Recruitment Committee by virtue of office.

    The Recruitment Committee shall conduct interviews, evaluate candidates, and make recruitment decisions.

    The Committee shall also formulate recruitment rules, terms and conditions of service, and determine salaries and other benefits.

    The Recruitment Committee shall consist of:

    1. President
    2. General Secretary
    3. Treasurer
    4. Two (02) Members of the Executive Committee

      Part V: Financial Management

      Article 20

      Sources of the Organization’s Fund

      The funds of the Organization may be raised from the following sources:

      a) Membership admission fees.

      b) Membership subscriptions.

      c) One-time membership contributions.

      d) One-time donations, income generated from projects, and loans obtained from banks, organizations, foundations, and financial institutions.

      e) Donations from individuals or institutions.

      f) Government grants.

      g) Government project grants or loans.

      h) Foreign donations, grants, and contributions from foreign embassies or other lawful sources.

      Article 21

      Financial Management

      a) The Organization shall open a Savings or Current Account in the name of the Organization with any scheduled bank in Bangladesh.

      b) The bank account shall be operated jointly by any two (2) of the following three officers:

      • President
      • General Secretary
      • Treasurer

      c) With the approval of the President and the General Secretary, the Treasurer may keep petty cash not exceeding BDT 5,000 (Five Thousand Taka) for day-to-day expenses. Such cash shall be used only for achieving the objectives of the Organization and implementing welfare activities, disaster relief, and humanitarian assistance.

      d) Prior approval of the Executive Committee shall be obtained before withdrawing funds for organizational expenses.

      e) No organizational funds shall be retained in cash unnecessarily. All collected funds shall be deposited into the designated bank account as soon as possible, and deposit receipts shall be preserved.

      f) All banking transactions shall be conducted in accordance with applicable banking laws and regulations.

      g) No subscription or donation shall be collected in the name of the Organization without an official receipt and the approval of the Executive Committee. Receipt books, cash books, stock registers, distribution registers, income and expenditure registers, bills, vouchers, and all other records necessary to ensure financial transparency shall be maintained in accordance with the decisions of the Advisory Council and the Executive Committee.

      Article 22

      Foreign Donations and Grants

      The Organization shall receive foreign donations and grants in accordance with the provisions of the Foreign Donations (Voluntary Activities) Regulation Ordinance, 1978, and other applicable laws.

      A separate bank account shall be maintained with a scheduled bank for all foreign donations and grants.

      Article 23

      Loan Repayment

      The Executive Committee shall be responsible for repaying all loans obtained by the Organization from banks, financial institutions, or any other lawful sources.

      Article 24

      Audit

      a) The Organization shall submit its annual income and expenditure accounts to the Advisory Council every year.

      b) The Advisory Council shall establish a three-member Internal Audit Committee from among the General Members to audit the Organization’s financial accounts annually. The Advisory Council may replace any member of the Internal Audit Committee whenever necessary.

      Article 25

      Miscellaneous

      If any member or officer faces any civil or criminal legal proceedings arising from actions performed in good faith while carrying out the lawful activities of the Organization, the Organization may provide financial and other necessary assistance as determined by the Executive Committee.

      Part VI: Meetings and Elections

      Article 26

      Types of Meetings and Rules

      The Organization shall hold the following meetings:

      a) General Meeting

      b) Executive Committee Meeting

      c) Emergency Meeting

      d) Special General Meeting

      e) Adjourned Meeting

      f) Requisitioned Meeting

      a) General Meeting

      The General Meeting shall be held at least once every year, which shall be deemed the Annual General Meeting (AGM). A Special General Meeting may also be convened whenever necessary.

      The following matters shall be approved at the AGM:

      1. Annual Report of the Organization.
      2. Annual Budget and Financial Statements.
      3. Appointment of Auditors for the annual internal audit.
      4. Amendments, additions, or revisions to the Constitution.
      5. A quorum shall consist of at least one-third (1/3) of the total members. Decisions shall be passed by a majority vote of members present.

      b) Executive Committee Meeting

      1. The Executive Committee shall hold at least six (6) meetings each year.
      2. A notice specifying the date, time, and venue shall be issued at least three (3) days before the meeting. The quorum shall consist of at least one-half (1/2) of the Executive Committee members. Decisions shall be made by a majority vote of the members present.

      c) Emergency Meeting

      An Emergency Meeting may be convened by giving three (3) days’ notice.

      A quorum shall consist of at least two-thirds (2/3) of the total members.

      All decisions shall be adopted by a majority vote of the members present.

      d) Special General Meeting

      A Special General Meeting may be convened with fifteen (15) days’ notice whenever necessary.

      Only the specific agenda mentioned in the notice shall be discussed.

      A quorum shall consist of at least two-thirds (2/3) of the total members.

      Decisions shall be adopted by a majority vote.

      e) Adjourned Meeting

      1. If a General Meeting is adjourned due to lack of quorum, it shall be reconvened within twenty-one (21) days, with at least seven (7) days’ notice. Decisions shall be final upon approval by at least two-thirds (2/3) of the General Council members present.
      2. If an Executive Committee Meeting is adjourned for lack of quorum, a second meeting shall be held upon three (3) days’ notice. The meeting shall proceed regardless of the number of members present, and its decisions shall be considered final.

      f) Requisitioned Meeting

      1. If the President or General Secretary fails to convene a meeting as required by the Constitution, at least two-thirds (2/3) of the total members may submit a written requisition appointing one Convener and specifying the purpose of the meeting.
      2. The President or General Secretary shall convene the meeting within twenty-one (21) days of receiving the requisition. If they fail to do so, the requisitioning members may convene the meeting themselves within the next thirty (30) days by giving fifteen (15) days’ notice.

      A quorum shall consist of at least two-thirds (2/3) of the total members.

      The meeting shall be held at the Organization’s office, and decisions shall be passed by majority vote.

      Other Programs

      Where practicable, the Organization shall arrange at least one annual picnic, conference, reunion, newcomer reception, Iftar gathering, or similar social event. The primary purpose of such programs shall be to strengthen mutual acquaintance, friendship, unity, cooperation, and brotherhood among members.

      Article 27

      Election Procedure

      a) Executive Committee:
      The Executive Committee shall be elected through nomination, endorsement, and secret ballot or online voting by the General Members. The President and the General Secretary shall be elected through direct voting by the members. Thereafter, the President and the General Secretary, in consultation with the Advisory Council, shall announce the full Executive Committee.

      b) Term of Office:
      The term of the Executive Committee shall be two (2) years, commencing from the date of election or appointment.

      Article 28

      Election Commission

      An Election Commission consisting of three (3) persons shall be formed by the Advisory Council. The Commission shall comprise:

      • One (1) Chief Election Commissioner
      • Two (2) Election Commissioners

      The members of the Election Commission shall neither be candidates in the election nor members of the Organization.

      The Election Commission shall automatically dissolve upon completion of the election.

      Article 29

      Voting Procedure

      a) Each voter shall cast one vote for one position only.

      b) Voting by proxy shall not be permitted.

      c) The Election Commission shall publish the election schedule at least thirty (30) days before the election.

      d) The decisions of the Election Commission regarding the election shall be final and binding.

      Article 30

      Miscellaneous

      a) Any General Member shall be eligible to contest the positions of President and General Secretary.

      b) A member may contest both the President and General Secretary positions simultaneously. If the same person is elected to both positions, he or she shall choose one office, and the candidate receiving the next highest number of votes for the other office shall be declared elected automatically.

      c) If there is only one candidate for a particular office, that candidate shall be declared elected unopposed. However, the General Council may nominate another eligible member as a candidate, and such nominee shall accept the nomination.

      d) The Executive Committee shall serve for a two (2)-year term. If elections cannot be held due to unavoidable circumstances, the Advisory Council may extend the tenure of the Executive Committee or appoint an Interim Committee. Such Interim Committee shall not continue for more than six (6) months. If elections remain impossible thereafter, the Advisory Council may take any necessary decisions for the effective administration of the Organization.

      Part VII

      Amendment of the Constitution, Supremacy of Law, and Dissolution of the Organization

      Article 31

      Amendment, Revision and Addition to the Constitution

      a) Any Article, Clause, Sub-Article, or Provision of this Constitution may be amended, revised, shortened, or supplemented upon the recommendation of the Advisory Council, stating the reasons for such amendment, and shall be approved by an affirmative vote of at least two-thirds (2/3) of the members present at a General Meeting.

      b) Under exceptional circumstances, the Advisory Council shall have the authority to make temporary amendments or additions to any provision of this Constitution.

      Article 32

      Supremacy of Law

      Notwithstanding anything contained in this Constitution, the Organization shall operate in accordance with Ordinance No. 46 of 1961, all applicable laws of Bangladesh, and the approvals and regulations of the relevant government authorities.

      Article 33

      Dissolution of the Organization

      If, due to unavoidable circumstances, the dissolution of the Organization becomes necessary, all liabilities and obligations of the Organization shall first be settled by the Executive Committee. Thereafter, the Organization may be dissolved upon the approval of at least three-fifths (3/5) of the General Members.

      — End of Constitution —

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