Police uniform reversal signals internal adjustment

As crime and violence continue to show a concerning trend across the country, the government has moved to revise an earlier decision on police uniforms, reflecting ongoing adjustments within the law enforcement system amid rising public safety challenges.

According to crime data from March and April, the country witnessed a significant number of violent and criminal incidents. Mob violence alone accounted for 60 reported cases, most of them linked to beatings on suspicion of theft.

During the same period, hundreds of murder cases were recorded nationwide, with family and political conflicts identified as major causes. Major cities such as Dhaka and Chattogram also reported notable levels of killings, robberies, extortion, and street crimes.

Other crime indicators further highlight the situation. Reports show more than 900 incidents of theft and snatching, including a rising number of mobile phone and bag snatching cases in the capital.

Around 98 robbery incidents were recorded, particularly on highways and suburban areas, while over 170 extortion-related cases were reported. Incidents of violence against women and children also remained high, adding to broader concerns over public safety.

Against this backdrop, the Home Ministry has decided to revert to the previous police uniform system, with metropolitan police returning to green shirts and district police to blue shirts with khaki trousers. Officials said the decision was taken following feedback from police personnel, many of whom expressed dissatisfaction with the recently introduced uniform.

The Home Minister said the change reflects internal concerns within the force and noted that implementation will take time due to production and logistical requirements.

While the uniform change is largely administrative, it comes at a time when the government is also intensifying law enforcement operations, including stricter action against drug and arms smuggling and ongoing special operations targeting major criminals.

The parallel rise in crime indicators and internal adjustments within the police system highlights the pressure on the law-and-order framework, as authorities attempt to balance operational effectiveness, morale within the force, and public expectations of security.