Bill to abolish RAB, create SRB placed 

 
The government has proposed abolishing the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) and forming a new specialised police unit named the Special Response Battalion (SRB).

Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed placed the "Special Response Battalion (SRB) Bill, 2026" in Parliament on Thursday. The bill proposes giving the new force powers to search, seize items and arrest people. It also includes provisions for different punishments for misconduct, including dismissal and removal from service.

Opposition Chief Whip Nahid Islam opposed the bill and requested its withdrawal. However, after it was placed, the bill was sent to the parliamentary standing committee for further scrutiny. The committee has been asked to submit its report within four days.

If the proposed law comes into effect, the existing law under which RAB was formed will be repealed.

Taking part in the discussion, Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed said RAB was being abolished in line with the election manifesto and public expectations. He said a modern and well-equipped elite force was still needed to combat cybercrime, gambling, drugs, terrorism and organised crime.

He said an institution itself was not responsible for wrongdoing and stressed the need to ensure accountability.

The minister said the proposed bill includes provisions for transparency and accountability. If any SRB member becomes involved in disciplinary misconduct, the matter will be investigated by a committee that will include private members, human rights activists and judicial officials.

Opposition Leader Dr Shafiqur Rahman welcomed the proposal to abolish RAB but warned that the new force must not become merely a change of name.