The Home Minister stated that the police are not an instrument of any political party

Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed has said the police are not a “stick-wielding force” for any political party or group, but are meant to serve the public.

He made the remarks on Saturday (28 March) while addressing the passing-out parade of the 43rd BCS batch of probationary Assistant Superintendents of Police (ASP) at the Bangladesh Police Academy in Sardah, Rajshahi.

The minister said the current government believes the police should not act on behalf of any party or faction, but instead function as a friend of the people.

“Our election manifesto pledged to ensure public safety and transform the police into a modern, service-oriented and humane organisation free from partisan influence,” he said.

He added that several initiatives have already been undertaken, including increasing manpower, to build a professional and modern police force and foster the right institutional mindset. The government is also working to establish a strong and independent Police Reform Commission.

Referring to concerns raised by police personnel, Salahuddin Ahmed noted that many officers are dissatisfied with the current uniform. He said the government would consider introducing a more traditional and appropriate design after consultations at the highest level.

Land Minister Mizanur Rahman Minu, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Ali Hossain Fakir, Police Academy Principal Additional IGP GM Azizur Rahman and Vice Principal DIG Basu Deb Banik, among other senior officials, were present at the event.

Probationary ASP Ahmed Sadman Sakib served as the parade commander.