THE recent decision to change the uniforms of the Bangladesh Police, Rapid Action Battalion, and Ansar reflects a misguided effort to erase the stains of past abuses. While new uniforms might provide an outward sense of change, they do little to solve the underlying problems of institutional inefficiency, corruption and public distrust. Reform that tackles the core issues is desperately needed, not one that relies on cosmetic fixes.
The announcement of new uniforms for Bangladesh鈥檚 law enforcement agencies was framed as a step towards rebuilding trust and fostering a new identity. However, this approach overlooks the fundamental issues plaguing these forces. For years, the police, RAB and Ansar have been perceived as tools of political oppression, particularly under the Awami League government. The organisations have become symbols of fear, representing unchecked authority, extrajudicial killings and suppression of dissent.
A new uniform cannot erase history. It cannot address years of misuse, nor can it absolve the police of their role in perpetuating systemic injustices. Instead, the focus should be on fixing the institutional failures that have allowed such abuses to thrive. True reform requires a change in behaviour, mindset and accountability mechanisms 鈥� not just attire.
The decision to change uniforms for approximately 2.14 lakh police, 5,000 RAB members, and over 68,000 Ansar personnel comes at a steep financial cost. In a country grappling with an economic crisis, this move raises legitimate concerns about misplaced priorities. Instead of spending on uniforms, these funds could be invested in modernising training, improving investigative tools and fostering a culture of accountability.
Moreover, giving RAB a new uniform at a time when its very existence is under scrutiny seems like an attempt to distract from deeper issues. Can a change in colour and design erase public distrust or the stigma associated with past operations? The answer is a clear no. True reform requires addressing systemic corruption, abuse of power and the lack of transparency within these institutions.
Accountability is the cornerstone of effective governance. Yet, the timing of this uniform change raises questions about the interim government鈥檚 priorities. A focus on real reform would involve implementing mechanisms that make law enforcement agencies accountable to the people they serve. For instance, the establishment of an independent oversight body to investigate police misconduct could be a transformative step.
Currently, the absence of such mechanisms allows a culture of impunity to persist. The Police Reform Commission has already proposed several measures, including strengthening internal accountability systems and promoting community-oriented policing. These proposals should be prioritised and acted upon, rather than sidelined in favour of superficial changes.
Changing uniforms does nothing to address the heavy-handed tactics still employed by law enforcement agencies. Recent incidents, such as the use of water cannons, sound grenades and batons against indigenous rights activists, demonstrate that the mindset within the police remains unchanged. Public trust cannot be restored through cosmetic measures; it requires a demonstrated commitment to upholding human rights and the rule of law.
The government must explain why such tactics are still being used and take immediate steps to reform the culture of violence within the police. A change in uniforms may symbolise a shift, but actions speak louder than appearances.
A fundamental aspect of police reform involves limiting the use of lethal force and ensuring adherence to established rules and regulations. While the Police Reform Commission has proposed several measures, including de-escalation training and stricter guidelines on the use of force, these recommendations remain largely unimplemented.
The focus should be on creating a culture where law enforcement agencies prioritise the safety and rights of citizens. Without this shift, any attempt at reform will be superficial and ineffective.
The deficits in democratic policing in Bangladesh are glaring. Law enforcement agencies often operate with a top-down, authoritarian approach, serving the interests of political elites rather than the public. This dysfunction not only undermines public trust but also jeopardises public safety.
Democratic policing involves accountability, transparency and a commitment to protecting citizens鈥� rights. To achieve this, the government must review and implement the proposals of the Police Reform Commission, establish independent oversight mechanisms, and ensure that police officers are adequately trained to serve as protectors, not oppressors.
A functional and trustworthy police force is essential for maintaining law and order. However, continued dysfunction within the force 鈥� exacerbated by corruption, political interference and inadequate training 鈥� poses a serious risk to public safety.
Restoring the full capacity of the police requires more than a change in uniform. It demands a comprehensive approach to reform, including the enactment of a new police act, modernised training programmes and stricter accountability measures. Only then can the police truly serve as guardians of public security.
For police reform to be substantive, it must address the root causes of dysfunction within the force. This includes tackling corruption, ensuring impartiality in investigations and promoting a culture of professionalism and integrity.
The enactment of a new police act should be the first step in this process. This legislation must prioritise the rights of citizens, establish clear accountability mechanisms and provide a framework for democratic policing. Additionally, the government must foster a coalition of stakeholders 鈥� including civil society, human rights organisations and law enforcement officials 鈥� to ensure that reform efforts are inclusive and effective.
The interim government must also prioritise addressing corruption within law enforcement agencies. Allegations of graft and misuse of power have eroded public trust in the police. Independent oversight bodies should be established to investigate such crimes impartially and hold offenders accountable. By focusing on rooting out corruption and promoting transparency, the police can begin to rebuild their reputation and restore public confidence.
The interim government鈥檚 decision to change the uniforms of law enforcement agencies is a distraction from the substantive reforms that are urgently needed. While the new attire might symbolise a fresh start, it does nothing to address the systemic issues of corruption, inefficiency and public distrust.
True reform requires a comprehensive approach that prioritises accountability, transparency, and the protection of citizens鈥� rights. By implementing the proposals of the Police Reform Commission, enacting a new police act, and establishing independent oversight mechanisms, the government can lay the foundation for a truly reformed and democratic police force. Anything less is a disservice to the people of Bangladesh.
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MA Hossain is a political and defence analyst.
