Police Week 2026 begins with medal suspension controversy

Police Week 2026 begins today (May 10) under the slogan “My Police, My Country, Bangladesh First,” but this year’s flagship event of the police force has opened amid controversy over the suspension of police medals.

Government authorities have temporarily halted the distribution of the prestigious Bangladesh Police Medal (BPM) and President Police Medal (PPM) following allegations of irregularities in the proposed award list.

Sources said 109 police personnel had initially been nominated for medals in recognition of distinguished service. However, objections surfaced after allegations emerged that several officers on the list had already received similar honours in previous years, while one official was reportedly included twice.

The controversy triggered internal discontent within the force, prompting the Ministry of Home Affairs to suspend the medal-giving process pending further review.

Confirming the development, Khandaker Rafiqul Islam, additional inspector general (Crime and Operations) at Bangladesh Police Headquarters, said the medals were originally scheduled to be awarded on the opening day of Police Week but the ceremony has now been postponed.

He added that a fresh decision would be announced later.

Meanwhile, the week-long programme officially begins at 9:00 am at Rajarbagh Police Lines, where Prime Minister Tarique Rahman is set to inaugurate the event and attend the annual police parade as chief guest for the first time as a premier.

Due to the government’s austerity measures, this year’s arrangement has been shortened from seven days to four and will conclude on May 13.

Separate messages marking the occasion have been issued by President Mohammed Shahabuddin, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman and Home Adviser Salahuddin Ahmed.

The four-day programme includes welfare parades, IGP badge ceremonies, recognition for anti-drug and anti-arms operations, visits to PUNAK stalls, and multiple working sessions focused on the future roadmap and organizational issues of the police force.