MAY 10 (V7N) - The landscape of law enforcement in Bangladesh is set for a significant structural and welfare-oriented transformation, as announced by Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed during Police Week 2026. Speaking at the "Prime Minister’s Special Welfare Meeting" at Rajarbagh Police Auditorium, the Minister outlined a series of strategic reforms aimed at boosting the morale and operational efficiency of the force. With Prime Minister Tarique Rahman in attendance as the chief guest, the government signaled its commitment to addressing long-standing grievances within the police ranks—specifically focusing on career stagnation, financial compensation, and health infrastructure.

A primary highlight of the proposed reforms is a new honorary promotion policy designed to recognize the lifelong dedication of lower-tier officers. Currently, many constables face the prospect of retiring at the same rank they entered, even after four decades of service. To remedy this, the government plans to introduce honorary promotions upon retirement:

Constables to honorary Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI)

ASIs to honorary Sub-Inspector (SI)

SIs to honorary Inspector

This initiative is paired with a landmark proposal to introduce overtime allowances for personnel from the constable to inspector level, acknowledging the intense physical and mental pressure of duties that frequently extend beyond regular working hours.

The government’s vision for a "public welfare-oriented" force also includes a major overhaul of healthcare and infrastructure. Minister Ahmed confirmed plans to upgrade central and divisional police hospitals with modern facilities, with further assessments underway for the construction of specialized advanced medical centers. Addressing the chronic issue of accommodation, the Minister pledged dedicated funds for land acquisition and the development of new housing units for various police departments. These measures are framed not just as perks, but as essential requirements for maintaining a disciplined and motivated force capable of meeting modern security challenges.

On the operational front, the Home Minister noted a marked improvement in the national law and order situation over the past two months, fueled by ongoing drives against terrorism, extortion, and drug trafficking. However, he emphasized that traditional policing must now be augmented by technological expertise to combat sophisticated crimes such as online gambling, money laundering, and cyber offenses. To this end, a committee has been formed to recommend legislative updates, including amendments to existing laws to more effectively curb mob violence and align law enforcement practices with contemporary public expectations. This holistic approach seeks to ensure that as the police force becomes more technologically adept, it remains firmly rooted in its mission of service and accountability.

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