DHAKA, May 09 (V7N) – President Mohammed Shahabuddin has formally inaugurated Police Week 2026 with a powerful call for the modernization and humanization of the Bangladesh Police. In a state message issued on May 9, 2026, the President emphasized that the future of the force lies in its transition toward a "humane, people-friendly, and technology-driven" institution. Recognizing the police as a cornerstone of national security and law and order, the Head of State paid tribute to the historical sacrifices made by officers, particularly those who laid down their lives during the Great Liberation War. He underscored that the stability and development of the nation are inextricably linked to the professionalism and discipline of its law enforcement, framing the police as the primary guardians of public property and life.

A significant portion of the President's address was dedicated to the evolving nature of global and domestic crime in the age of rapid technological advancement. He noted with concern that the advent of the Fourth Industrial Revolution has introduced complex threats, specifically highlighting the misuse of cyberspace, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and "deepfake" technologies in criminal activities. To counter these multidimensional challenges, the President stressed that the Bangladesh Police must aggressively enhance their technical skills and integrate modern tools into their investigative processes. This push for a digital-first police force is seen as essential for maintaining the rule of law in an era where traditional crime-fighting methods are increasingly insufficient against tech-savvy offenders.

Beyond technical upgrades, the President placed a heavy emphasis on the moral and ethical framework of the force, advocating for greater transparency and accountability to preserve its public image. He called for a fundamental shift in the relationship between the police and the citizenry, suggesting that a service-oriented mindset and the strengthening of community policing are vital for building public trust. By prioritizing human rights and just conduct, the President hopes to see the force emerge as a "trusted institution" where the public feels protected rather than intimidated. This call for reform aligns with the incumbent government's broader agenda to implement quality enhancement initiatives that bridge the gap between law enforcement and the communities they serve.

The President also took the opportunity to express his gratitude for the force's role in the successful conduct of the 13th Jatiya Sangsad elections, which were noted for being free, fair, and peaceful. This acknowledgment serves as a validation of the police's administrative efficiency during high-stakes national events. As Police Week 2026 commences, the presidential message sets a clear trajectory for the force: one that balances the iron-clad requirement of maintaining internal security with the delicate necessity of being a compassionate and technologically advanced public servant. The success of these programs, according to the President, will be measured by the force's ability to evolve into a modern protector of the democratic and legal rights of the people of Bangladesh.

END/AJ/RH