Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed on Monday said the government has decided to revise the police uniform, retaining the existing shirt while introducing khaki-coloured trousers.
He made the announcement at the Secretariat after the first meeting of the National Committee on Coordination, Management and Law and Order on forcibly displaced Myanmar nationals (Rohingya).
Responding to a question on the progress of the uniform change, the minister said both the public and police personnel have expressed dissatisfaction with the current attire.
"We have observed that the existing uniform has not gained widespread acceptance. It also does not align well with our linguistic and cultural context. Considering repeated requests from within the police force, we have taken the matter seriously," he said.
He added that the government is also factoring in elements of traditional design. "The previous shirt-used in metropolitan areas and nationwide-will remain unchanged. However, khaki has been finalised for the trousers," he noted.
According to the minister, the revised uniform has been finalised following extensive consultations with police officials. However, implementation will take time due to the need for fabric production and logistical preparation.
"Although there has been no formal notification yet, the decision has been taken and is being shared today," he said.
When asked about a reported incident involving a journalist being barred from travelling abroad, the minister said he was looking into the matter.
On the issue of bail granted to top criminals, he noted that several notorious offenders had secured bail through court orders after August 5.
"Granting bail is entirely a judicial matter. However, if any individual re-engages in criminal activities, law enforcement will take action based on allegations and cases," he said.
"Whether a top criminal or an ordinary citizen-murder remains a crime. If a case is filed, it will be investigated and the accused brought to justice," he added.
Commenting on the overall law and order situation, the minister said the administration is undergoing restructuring following a prolonged period of decline. "Efforts are underway to restore normalcy after the formation of a democratic government through elections," he said.
Addressing questions on transfers and compulsory retirement of police officials, he said recruitment, transfers, promotions, and retirement fall within the routine administrative functions of the Home Ministry.
"All such decisions have been taken in accordance with legal procedures. If necessary, new posts may also be created with approval from the Ministry of Public Administration," he added.
