Dhaka, Feb 3 (V7N) — The Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) will now be known as the Special Intervention Force (SIF), following approval by the interim government’s Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus. The change takes effect from Tuesday (February 3), although new operations will begin only after an official order is issued.

Home Affairs Advisor Lt Gen (Retd.) Md. Jahangir Alam Chowdhury announced the development during a briefing after the Core Committee on Law and Order meeting at the Secretariat on Tuesday.

He also confirmed that the uniform of the specialized unit is being changed, with the new design already completed. SIF personnel may be seen wearing the new uniform as early as next week.

Lt Gen Chowdhury stated that the nature of RAB’s work has evolved over the past one and a half years, and that many people had long anticipated a name change.

“The meaning of RAB’s work has changed over time,” he said, noting that the old name carried negative perceptions.
Senior Secretary of the Ministry of Home Affairs, Nasimul Gani, added that many people considered the previous name “RAB” to have a bad reputation.

Speaking on the upcoming elections, Lt Gen Chowdhury expressed confidence in the process, stating that it would be fair, credible, and festive. He added that with the increased morale and efficiency of the police, no significant difficulties are expected during polling.

END/SMA/AJ