By Abu Hena Rasel (Dhaka Bureau)

The largest annual event of the Bangladesh Police, ‘Police Week 2026,’ is set to commence on May 10. However, this year’s observance marks a significant departure from tradition. The event is being organized with a focus on austerity and solemnity, balancing strict government directives for expenditure control with ongoing efforts to reform the police force within a changing political landscape.
Impact of Austerity Measures
The Cabinet Division of the Bangladesh Government recently issued a nine-point directive to reduce operational costs. These measures include a 30% reduction in fuel consumption for vehicles, a 20-50% cut in expenses for meetings and seminars, and the complete avoidance of decorative lighting.
These directives have directly impacted the planning of Police Week. According to Police Headquarters:
  • Duration: Typically a seven-day event, the schedule has been condensed to four days (May 10-13).
  • Decor and Hospitality: Traditional decorative lighting has been entirely scrapped. Costs for catering and hospitality have also been significantly slashed.
  • Attendance: Interaction sessions with civil society have been canceled, and strict restrictions have been imposed on the guest list.
Prime Minister Tarique Rahman to Attend as Chief Guest
A key highlight of this year’s event is the participation of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman. Police Headquarters confirmed that the Prime Minister will attend the parade at the Rajarbagh Police Lines on May 10 as the Chief Guest, where he will personally confer medals upon the awardees.
Notably, while the parade and the special audience with the President were omitted during the interim government’s tenure in 2025, they are being reinstated this year. A formal meeting between the President and high-ranking police officials is also scheduled at Bangabhaban. The theme for this year’s event is: ‘My Police, My Country, a Discrimination-Free Bangladesh.’
Professionalism Over Politics in Awards
In a shift toward meritocracy, the number of awardees has been reduced to 115 this year, down from a record 400 in 2024, which was often criticized for being politically motivated. According to the Medal Committee, field-level efficiency, acts of bravery, and integrity are being prioritized over political affiliations.
AIG (Media) AHM Shahadat Hossain stated, ‘Per the Ministry of Home Affairs gazette, 115 personnel will receive the BPM and PPM medals. Transparency and professionalism are our primary benchmarks for selection.’
Field Administration Facing Challenges
The government’s decision to cut fuel allocations by 30% has created operational hurdles for field-level patrols and crime prevention. The police force is currently navigating a critical period, balancing increasing public service demands against limited logistical support. This year’s ‘Darbar’ (audience) with the Prime Minister and the Home Minister will provide a platform for senior officers to discuss these pressing challenges.
In this transformed environment, the Bangladesh Police aims to use ‘Police Week’ as a platform to restore its public image and regain national trust. This example of austerity is also being viewed as a precedent for other government departments to follow.
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The Author:
Abu Hena Rasel: Senior journalist and Contributor, Pressenza- Dhaka Bureau.