SARDAH, Mar 28 (V7N) – Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed announced on Saturday that the government is considering a major change to the current police uniform, acknowledging widespread dissatisfaction within the force. Speaking as the Chief Guest at the 43rd BCS (Police) probationers' graduation parade, the Minister indicated a potential return to a "traditional" attire that resonates with the force's professional heritage.

Dissatisfaction with the "Iron Grey" Uniform

The current iron-grey uniform was introduced by the interim government in November 2025 to replace the long-standing turquoise-and-blue scheme. However, since the new BNP-led government took office following the February 12 elections, the Bangladesh Police Service Association has formally requested a reversal.

  • Key Complaints: Officers have cited concerns over the new fabric's suitability for Bangladesh’s heat and humidity, a lack of distinctiveness from other agencies, and a disconnect from the force's historical identity.

  • Minister's Stance: "I have gathered through discussions that many members are not satisfied with the existing uniform," the Home Minister stated. "I will raise the matter at the highest level of government to restore a suitable, traditional uniform."

Rebuilding the Force After "Fascist" Rule

Addressing the 72 newly commissioned Assistant Superintendents of Police (ASPs) at the Bangladesh Police Academy, the Minister delivered a sharp critique of the previous administration.

  • Institutional Recovery: He remarked that like many state institutions, the police force was "destroyed" under the previous "fascist" regime. He emphasized that the force must now transition from being a "baton-wielding enforcer" for political parties to becoming a "genuine friend of the people."

  • Humanitarian Mandate: Recalling the party's election manifesto, Salahuddin Ahmed pledged to transform the police into a modern, service-oriented, and humane organization.

The Police Reform Commission

A central pillar of the new government's strategy is the establishment of an independent and strong Police Reform Commission.

  • Apolitical Governance: The Minister stated that the commission’s goal is to ensure that appointments, transfers, and promotions are based strictly on merit and seniority, keeping the force entirely free from political influence.

  • Legal Modernization: He also called for the replacement of outdated, British-era police laws with modern, people-friendly legislation that upholds human rights standards.

Event Highlights

The ceremony marked the completion of one-year basic training for the 43rd BCS (Police) batch.

  • Top Honors: Md Fahim Faisal received the "Best Probationer" and "Best Academic" awards, while Md Arafat Hossain was recognized for excellence in field activities.

  • Dignitaries Present: The event was attended by Land Minister Mizanur Rahman Minu, Inspector General of Police Ali Hossain Fakir, and other senior military and civil officials.

The Home Minister concluded by urging the new officers to be "servants of the people" as they begin their careers during this period of "historic transformation" for Bangladesh.

END/SMA/AJ