In light of the government’s decision to rename the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) as the Special Intervention Force (SIF) along with new uniforms, and with BNP Chairperson Tarique Rahman stating that the name of Bangladesh Rifles (BDR) would be reinstated instead of Border Guard Bangladesh(BGB), we must be cautious not to mistake cosmetic changes for genuine reform.

Names and uniforms are not what matter. What matters is whether such forces operate transparently, remain accountable, and serve citizens rather than intimidate them. 

For too long, RAB in particular has been associated with allegations of extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, and operating above the law. While things may appear different after the events of the Monsoon Revolution, simply rebranding the force risks perpetuating the same culture under a different banner.

True reform requires dismantling the structures of impunity. It means ensuring that no unit can act beyond the reach of the judiciary and embedding citizen-centric values into every operation, where protection of rights and dignity is paramount. 

Failure to ensure this means that the renaming will be seen as little more than an attempt to deflect criticism, especially from international observers and human rights bodies.

Our people are in dire need of institutions that inspire trust, not fear, and a security apparatus that safeguards democracy rather than undermines it. We can only expect that after elections, our security forces truly embrace transparency, submit to oversight, and prioritize service to the public.

Reform is not about appearances but accountability. Let us bring about deeper transformation, not just hollow exercises that fail to address the very concerns that have long haunted our nation’s law enforcement.