Police Service Association urges review of decision to change uniform

The Bangladesh Police Service Association has called on the government to reconsider the interim government's decision to change the police uniform, alleging that the move was taken without consultation with officers or proper evaluation.

The appeal was made in a statement signed by the association's General Secretary and Superintendent of Police (SP) of Cumilla, Md Anisuzzaman, on Monday (23 February).

According to the statement, the newly selected uniform was finalised without taking into account police members' opinions, the country's weather conditions, or the physical complexion of officers. It also claimed that the design closely resembles the uniform of another agency and was chosen without any form of public review, making it difficult to distinguish police personnel in the field -- an issue raised by officers at the grassroots level.

First look at the new iron-grey police uniform, now being rolled out on a limited scale across the force. Photo taken in front of the Rajarbagh Police Lines on 15 Nov/TBS

Expressing deep concern, the association said most members of the force do not support what it described as a hurried decision. Many officers, it noted, consider the existing uniform a long-standing symbol of the Bangladesh Police's tradition, discipline, and professionalism.

The statement also highlighted the financial implications of such a change, describing it as a costly process that could place additional pressure on the country's economy under the current circumstances.

Instead of allocating significant funds to produce new uniforms, the association suggested investing in modernising the force, supplying vehicles at the police station level, and strengthening logistical support, which it said would be more practical and beneficial.

It further emphasised that improving morale, mindset, and professionalism among police personnel is more important than altering the colour or design of uniforms.

The association urged the government to revisit the decision, conduct further research, and seek broader public and stakeholder feedback before taking what it termed a more realistic course of action, while giving due importance to the sentiments and practical concerns of police members.