The recent remarks of Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed about reinstating a traditional uniform for the Bangladesh Police have revived debate over police reform. Speaking after the closing parade of the 43rd BCS (Police) batch at the Bangladesh Police Academy in Sardah, Rajshahi, he acknowledged dissatisfaction among officers with the current attire and said the government is considering a return to an earlier uniform. Though administrative in tone, his statement raises a deeper question: can a change of dress restore public trust in a force long criticized for corruption, being politically influenced, and holding anti-people behavior?
In Bangladesh, the police have often inspired suspicion rather than respect. Successive governments have been accused of using them to suppress dissent, protect partisan interests, and even influence elections. During unrest, allegations of excessive force, arbitrary arrests, and harassment reinforced the perception that police serve those in power rather than citizens. In crises, many people avoid seeking police help, fearing trouble instead of assistance. This trust deficit cannot be bridged by altering uniforms. The problem lies in culture, accountability, and institutional structure.
After the July uprising, the interim government modified the police uniform to signal change. Previous administrations made similar symbolic gestures with identical intentions. Yet cosmetic adjustments failed to deliver substantive reform. Public fear persisted because behaviors, incentives, and leadership patterns remained unchanged. Uniforms may symbolize authority or tradition, but they do not create integrity or compassion.
Real reform must begin at the top. The character of a police force reflects its leadership. When senior officials are perceived as politically aligned, the same culture filters down. Honest officers may feel pressured to follow directives that conflict with ethical policing. Merit-based, transparent, and politically neutral appointments to senior posts are therefore essential. Leadership that exemplifies professionalism can gradually transform institutional culture.
International examples offer lessons. In Japan, the community policing model 'Koban' places officers in neighborhood posts where they build close ties with residents. They assist with directions, lost property, and community concerns, fostering trust. Children are taught to approach police for help. This accessibility has helped build one of the world's most trusted forces. In the United Kingdom, "policing by consent" emphasizes legitimacy derived from public approval rather than fear. In Canada, community engagement-including school visits and consultations-strengthens confidence in law enforcement. Singapore combines strict discipline with competitive pay, producing professionalism and consistency in enforcement. Even in the United States, despite scrutiny, several cities have adopted community-oriented strategies assigning officers to specific neighborhoods to build relationships and respond proactively.
For Bangladesh, the lesson is clear: service must replace coercion. Officers must see themselves as protectors, not intimidators. Training at the Bangladesh Police Academy should emphasize ethics, human rights, communication, and conflict resolution. Psychological screening during recruitment can help identify empathetic, community-minded candidates. Working conditions also require attention. Many lower-ranking officers endure long hours under stress with limited facilities. Low pay and financial pressure can foster corruption. Better salaries, regulated shifts, housing, healthcare, insurance, and quality education for children would boost morale and reduce misconduct. A secure officer is more likely to uphold integrity.
Accountability must be strengthened. An independent civilian oversight commission with investigative powers could address complaints of misconduct. Transparent disciplinary processes and public reporting would signal zero tolerance for abuse. Internal affairs units should be insulated from political interference. Technology such as body-worn cameras and digital record-keeping can further enhance transparency and minimize disputes over conduct.
De-politicization is perhaps the most critical reform. Clear legal safeguards must prevent political leaders from directing police actions for partisan purposes. Transfers, promotions, and postings should follow objective criteria rather than political loyalty. The Police Act and related regulations may require amendments to ensure operational independence while maintaining democratic accountability.
Community engagement can gradually rebuild trust. Police stations should host open forums where citizens voice concerns. Officers can join local events, educational programs, and awareness campaigns. Community liaison officers in every thana or ward could create direct communication channels. When residents personally know officers in their area, fear diminishes.
Specialized units such as Industrial Police, Tourist Police, and Traffic Police must also embody service principles. Industrial Police should protect workers' rights while maintaining order and monitoring irregularities in factories. Tourist Police should act as ambassadors of hospitality, assisting visitors with safety and guidance. Traffic Police, often the most visible branch, must enforce rules consistently and courteously, avoiding selective enforcement that breeds resentment. Rather than intimidating vehicle owners with unnecessary cases, they should focus on education and long-term awareness. If every wing demonstrates a service-oriented attitude, citizens will seek their help without hesitation.
Digital transformation offers further opportunities. Online complaint systems, digital FIR registration, and real-time case tracking would reduce harassment and bribery. Citizens should access services without repeated physical visits. Transparency limits discretionary abuse. Although some digitalization exists, it remains ineffective because physical interaction is still required at most stages.
Gender sensitivity and diversity deserve emphasis. Recruiting more women and members of diverse communities can make policing inclusive. Women officers are vital in handling domestic violence and child protection cases. Diversity strengthens legitimacy in a pluralistic society.
Reward systems must highlight exemplary service. Officers showing integrity, bravery, and compassion should receive recognition and career advancement. Celebrating positive examples can reshape institutional identity and inspire others. Media portrayals of officers assisting communities may gradually improve public perception.
Educational reform is equally important. Civic education explaining the lawful role of police can foster mutual understanding. Programs where students visit police stations, or officers visit schools, can humanize both sides. When children grow up seeing police as helpers, attitudes shift. Historical legacy should also be reclaimed. The Bangladesh Police played a courageous role during the Liberation War of 1971, standing among the first to resist the West Pakistani military junta. This heritage of sacrifice can serve as a moral foundation for reform, inspiring alignment with national welfare rather than partisan agendas.
Mental health support for officers is often overlooked. Policing is stressful. Counseling and stress management programs can prevent burnout and aggression. Psychologically supported officers are better equipped to interact calmly and respectfully.
Reform must be continuous, not episodic. Governments change, but institutions endure. A long-term modernization plan with measurable benchmarks would ensure sustained progress. Parliamentary oversight, civil society participation, and periodic public trust surveys can monitor improvement.
Bangladesh stands at a critical juncture. As it seeks to consolidate democracy and achieve developed status, the character of its law enforcement institutions will shape that journey. A people-oriented police force is not merely a necessity; it is a democratic imperative. Citizens must feel police are guardians of rights, not instruments of power. Under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, the government has an opportunity to pursue substantive reform beyond symbolism. Changing uniforms may address morale concerns, but real transformation requires changes in attitude, structure, remuneration, accountability, and community engagement. Reform must prioritize honesty at the top, fairness in operations, and service at every level.
When citizens approach officers with confidence rather than fear, when complaints are handled promptly and respectfully, when political neutrality is visible, and when integrity is rewarded, the image of the police will improve. Trust cannot be imposed; it must be earned through daily conduct. A uniform may symbolize authority, but legitimacy comes through justice and service. Bangladesh does not simply need a traditional uniform; it needs a transformed institution. With sincere and sustained cultural reform both at the polices' end and citizens' end, the Bangladesh Police can reclaim the respect earned during the struggle for independence and become a true partner in building a democratic and developed future while ensuring the welfare of their fellow countrymen.
The writer is Chief Editor at Mohammadi News Agency (MNA) and Editor at Kishore Bangla
