Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed has directed members of the Bangladesh Police to strictly maintain the chain of command and work in the best interests of the country's citizens.
"Establish the chain of command in Bangladesh Police. The high officials of the force can communicate to any level if required, but officials at the lower levels must follow the chain of command," he said.
He was speaking to journalists after a meeting with senior officers of the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) and officers-in-charge of 50 police stations at its headquarters in the capital today.
The Home Minister emphasized that the police must function as a people-friendly force under the current pro-people government, which assumed office through a free, fair, acceptable, and credible election.
Responding to a question about a possible change in police uniforms, Ahmed said the media would be informed after discussions with police authorities.
He also cautioned officers against any actions that could tarnish the image of the force.
"As proud members of the Bangladesh Police, you must refrain from any conduct that could damage the force's reputation," he said, urging professionalism and integrity in the line of duty.
The minister directed officials to intensify drives to recover illegal firearms and bring terrorists and extortionists to justice.
He stressed maximum vigilance in maintaining law and order and underscored the importance of modernizing traffic management systems to ease congestion in the capital.
Addressing the persistent traffic congestion in Dhaka, the minister said a dedicated cell has already been formed to identify the causes of traffic snarls and recommend solutions.
As part of experimental measures, he said that battery-run rickshaws will be gradually restricted on VIP roads in phases to help reduce traffic jams.
Regarding the arrest of two accused in the case involving Inqilab Mancha spokesperson Osman Hadi, Ahmed said the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) is reinvestigating the matter following a naraji petition filed after submission of the charge sheet.
Further discussions will be held after the investigation is completed, he added.
Speaking at the meeting, Inspector General of Police Ali Hossain Fakir said the Bangladesh Police has been carrying out its responsibilities with utmost sincerity, prioritizing law enforcement.
He expressed optimism that existing law and order challenges would soon be resolved under the Home Minister's guidance.
Senior officials of the DMP, including Additional Police Commissioners, Joint Commissioners, Deputy Commissioners, Assistant Commissioners, and Officers-in-Charge, were present at the meeting.
