Summary:
- The Bangladesh government has finalized new uniforms for the Police, RAB, and Ansar forces to modernize their appearance and improve functionality.
- The decision was made during a Home Ministry meeting where 18 uniform designs were reviewed and selected.
- The uniform change is part of broader police reforms following the Awami League government’s fall and public demands for depoliticized law enforcement.
- Officers previously expressed discomfort with existing uniforms, linking them to negative public sentiment, prompting this overhaul.
The government of Bangladesh has finalized new uniforms for three key law enforcement agencies: the Bangladesh Police, the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), and the Ansar forces. The decision, made during a meeting of the Home Ministry’s advisory council on January 20, 2025, marks a significant step in modernizing the appearance of these forces while addressing both operational needs and public perception.
The uniform redesign initiative follows months of deliberations and discussions that began in August 2024. This reform effort gained momentum after the fall of the Awami League government and subsequent public demands for police reform. The interim government, led by Home Affairs Adviser Brigadier General (Retd.) Sakhawat Hossain, prioritized these changes to enhance professionalism and foster a more people-friendly image for law enforcement agencies.
During Monday’s meeting at the Secretariat, representatives from the police, RAB, and Ansar showcased 18 different uniform prototypes. The final designs were selected based on practicality, functionality, and alignment with operational requirements. According to officials, the new uniforms will be introduced gradually across the forces.
The updated uniforms feature distinct colors for each agency: brown for the police, sky blue for RAB personnel, and navy blue for Ansar members. These changes aim to improve identification and create uniformity within each force while reflecting their unique roles. An official involved in the process stated that these updates are intended to modernize the forces’ appearance and help rebuild trust with the public.
The decision to change uniforms also stems from broader efforts to reform law enforcement in Bangladesh. Following widespread protests and unrest last year, including a student-led mass uprising, police officers expressed dissatisfaction with their current uniforms and working conditions. Many officers reportedly felt uncomfortable performing their duties in existing attire, which they associated with negative public sentiment.
Brigadier General (Retd.) Sakhawat Hossain previously emphasized the importance of depoliticizing law enforcement agencies. He advocated for an independent police commission to oversee operations and ensure that officers are not used for political purposes. Addressing concerns about morale within the police force, he remarked last August: “Many officers feel disheartened. They no longer want to work in their current uniforms. This change is necessary to restore confidence and improve performance.”
The reform process also included consultations with middle- and lower-ranking officers who submitted an 11-point demand list last year. Among their requests were changes to uniforms and logos to better align with their vision of a more approachable and effective police force.
This initiative represents a broader effort by the interim government to address systemic issues within law enforcement while responding to public demands for accountability and modernization. Further details regarding the implementation timeline are expected to be announced soon as these reforms are rolled out in phases.
Source: Samakal
