New Police Bill: TIB Fears It Creates Another RAB
Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) has serious concerns about a new police law. This law is the Special Response Battalion (SRB) Bill, 2026. Parliament is now considering this bill. It aims to create a new special police unit. This unit would replace the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB).
TIB fears the SRB Bill could create a force very similar to RAB. It might give the new SRB broad powers. TIB believes this force could also lack proper accountability.
In a Sunday statement, TIB listed its worries. The draft bill gives the SRB wide and unclear powers. It lacks clear rules for using firearms and force. The SRB could also search and arrest people without warrants, based only on suspicion.
The bill suggests an internal system for complaints. TIB believes this system will not be fair. It would let SRB members investigate their own colleagues. This creates a conflict of interest.
TIB is also concerned about who will join the SRB. The bill allows transferring RAB staff without proper checks. Also, armed forces members could join the SRB temporarily. TIB said this might lead to military tactics in policing.
Iftekharuzzaman, TIB Executive Director, said ending RAB was a good step. But he stressed that just changing the name is not enough. He said the new force needs major changes in its structure, staff, and powers. It must also have clear rules for using force and strong accountability.
Mr. Iftekharuzzaman warned that if the SRB has the same powers and culture as RAB, it is just a “cosmetic makeover.” He said this would not be real institutional reform.
TIB urges changes to the bill. It wants to stop armed forces members from joining SRB. It also calls for a transparent process to check all personnel. This must ensure no one accused of past crimes joins the new force.
The organization also criticized the SRB’s wide powers. The bill lacks judicial protection. TIB said vague phrases like “maintaining internal security” could be used to stop protests. They fear it could provide legal cover for extrajudicial killings.
TIB has sent its detailed suggestions to the relevant minister and parliamentary committee. It asks them to consider these recommendations carefully. TIB hopes the government will establish a truly reformed law enforcement body. This body should respect citizens’ rights and ensure accountability.
