Students serving as traffic police assistants in Dhaka organised a press conference to voice their demands for better working conditions and official recognition on Sunday. The group, which has been assisting traffic management across eight divisions of the capital since last year’s mass uprising, called for walkie-talkies, safety equipment, proper uniforms, identification cards, and comprehensive training programmes.
At the press conference held at the National Press Club, students appealed to the home adviser and Traffic Police Department to address their demands within one month. They proposed transforming their current “Traffic Assistant Group” into an official “Transport Support Force” under police administration, to be managed through a separate governing body.
The student assistants emphasised their need for safety gear while performing road duties and communication devices to coordinate effectively. They also sought authorisation to conduct public awareness campaigns on road safety.
During the conference, serious allegations were raised against supervising officials, with students accusing them of involvement in embezzlement, extortion, and various corrupt practices since the programme’s inception. The students demanded immediate action against those responsible, including expulsion and legal prosecution.
The event featured speeches by student representatives Monir Hossain, Nasir Alam Nahid, Kazi Shahjahan, Rakibul Islam Rakib, and Md. Ismail. Assistant Professor at BUET’s Accident Research Institute Dr Armana Sabiha Haq also attended the press conference in support of the students’ cause.
