Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed said the police will not act as the muscle of any particular party or group but must become the genuine friend of people and a symbol of security.
Ensuring public safety and transforming the force into a modern, and efficient service free from partisan influence is the government’s core objective, he added.
He made these remarks at passing-out parade of 27th BCS (Police) batch at Bangladesh Police Academy in Sardah.
Salahuddin noted that the government has initiated various measures to rebuild the morale of a police force severely damaged by extreme politicisation during the previous “fascist regime”.
To restore professional integrity, a strict policy of “reward and punishment” based on honesty and discipline has been implemented, where bravery is celebrated and misconduct is met with firm disciplinary action.
Salahuddin extended heartfelt congratulations to the graduating officers, noting that this professional milestone should have occurred years ago.
He described the 18 years of “limitless deprivation and inhumane suffering” endured by these officers, victims of political vengeance by the former autocratic government, as deeply painful.
Following the fall of that regime, the minister expressed his satisfaction in seeing them finally regain their rightful status and rights.
Addressing the ASP probationers, Salahuddin reminded them that they are entering their careers during a period of national transformation.
He underscored that officers must ensure every citizen, from a street worker to a marginal farmer, receives equal service without discrimination, as everyone is equal in the eyes of the law.
Salahuddin further said the core strength of the force lies in its chain of command, loyalty, and coordinated leadership. In the age of information technology, he urged officers to acquire advanced technical knowledge to effectively tackle cybercrime and improve investigations.
He reiterated that the government maintains a “zero tolerance” policy towards corruption, requiring all members to serve with absolute integrity.
Salahuddin expressed his hope that the officers of 27th BCS batch would leverage the wisdom and experience gained from 18 years in various other professions to enrich the police force.
He urged them to fulfil public aspirations in line with the spirit of the Liberation War and the sacrifices made by the martyrs of July uprising.
The ceremony was attended by special guest Land Minister Mizanur Rahman Minu, local lawmakers, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Md Ali Hossain Fakir, and Academy’s Principal GM Azizur Rahman.
Other senior civil and military officials, including Rajshahi Divisional Commissioner ANM Bazlur Rashid and Rajshahi Range DIG Md Ashik Sayeed, were also present.
A total of 58 trainees, comprising 57 from 27th BCS and one from 28th BCS, entered professional service.
Salahuddin distributed awards to the top performers, naming Md Nurul Huda Bhuiyan as “Best Probationer” (all-rounder) and recipient of the award for Best in Field Activities. ABM Mamun was recognised as Best Shooter, while Abu Numan Mohammad Khairul Islam received Best Academic Award.
In a subsequent press briefing, Salahuddin addressed the recent recovery of explosive-like objects in Ashulia and Motijheel, confirming that Counter Terrorism and Transnational Crime (CTTC) and DMP bomb disposal units had safely neutralised them.
He reassured public that the overall law and order situation is fully under government control and that crime rates remain comparatively low, though the government maintains a state of high alert. The incidents are being investigated with high priority to ensure national stability.
