Home Affairs Minister Salahuddin Ahmed today instructed police to re‑examine cases filed after the fall of the Awami League government through the student‑people uprising, and ensure that innocent individuals are not subjected to harassment.
Salahuddin held a three‑hour meeting with heads of directorates and law enforcement agencies starting at 11:30 am.
He told journalists that several cases filed after August 5, 2024 by opportunistic individuals targeted people from various professions, including businessmen and journalists.
Police have been directed to re‑verify these cases and submit reports to the government to establish the rule of law.
Salahuddin also announced that the BDR mutiny would be re-investigated and that firearms licences issued during the three terms of the Awami League government (2009-2024) would be reviewed.
Licences granted through proper procedures will remain valid, while those issued for political or criminal purposes will be cancelled.
He warned against political interference in police work, stressing transparency and accountability.
Harassment of people won't be allowed, and if police engage in such acts, action will also be taken against them, he said.
The home minister further directed that superintendents of police (SPs) must not provide protocol beyond rules and announced the discontinuation of the lottery system for appointing OCs and SPs, citing lack of transparency.
Appointments will now be based on merit and qualifications.
Salahuddin said allegations of constables joining the force through forged addresses during the Awami League’s tenure will be investigated, though he urged police personnel not to panic unnecessarily.
He noted that 2,701 constable posts remain vacant and will be filled quickly, while more than 630 police members dismissed in 2006 will regain employment.
On mob violence, he warned that highways cannot be blocked to press demands, urging lawful means for grievances.
Referring to an interview of President Md Shahabuddin published in Kaler Kontho, Salahuddin said, “Everyone has the right to speak. Eeveryone will speak in their own way. Everyone’s constitutional rights will be ensured.”
