Bangladesh Police has officially started performing its duties in a new uniform. Since Wednesday (July 1st), police personnel have been seen in khaki-colored trousers with dark blue and light olive shirts. According to the decision of the new government, the change in uniform has been implemented.
The scene of the new dress was first seen at the inauguration ceremony of the newly constructed Barkau Police Camp at the Purbachal New City Project run by the Capital Development Authority (RAJUK). Inspector General of Police (IGP) Ali Hossain Fakir was seen in a dark blue shirt and khaki pants and Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) commissioner Mosleh Uddin Ahmed on the occasion.
Niaz, additional deputy police commissioner of Dhaka Metropolitan Police’s (DMP) Media and Public Relations Division, said the new uniforms are being delivered to all the members in a phased manner. Members who have already received new clothes have started performing their duties after Wednesday.
The change of uniforms
The demand for reform in the police force was heightened after the political transition on August 5, 2024. As part of this, the decision was made to change the uniform. According to that decision, on November 25, 2024, police began wearing iron-gray shirts and coffee-brown grey trousers.
However, there was a mixed reaction among the members of the army about the dress. After discussion and criticism at various levels on the colour election and practical aspects, the new government took initiative to reconsider the uniform.
A new announcement was made on June 18th
The police headquarters issued a revised notification regarding the new uniform on June 18th. It changed the color and design of shirts, trousers, jerseys, cardigans, pullovers, jackets, women members’ clothing and head coverings.
According to the notification—
District police and members of other units other than APBN, SPBN, SB, CID and RAB will have to wear dark blue shirts and khaki-colored trousers.
The shirt will have four pockets and seven buttons on the front.
Half-sleeved in summer and full sleeve shirts in winter will be used.
Jerseys, cardigans and pullovers will also be dark blue.
New Directions for Women Police Officers
Detailed instructions have also been issued for the women police officers.
Members of the district police and other units will be able to wear dark blue saris and dark blue blouses.
A light olive blouse with dark blue sarees has been fixed for the women members of the Metropolitan Police.
If desired, the approved dark blue head can be used.
Women in the traffic unit will be able to wear full sleeve shirts or blouses throughout the year.
During pregnancy, the concerned unit chief will have the opportunity to use the general dress subject to the approval of the head.
The new uniforms are aimed at ensuring the identity, professionalism and integration of the force in the activities of the police force, the sources said.