Prime Minister’s Adviser on Information and Broadcasting Dr Zahed Ur Rahman on Tuesday said that the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) may undergo a name change, but an elite security force will continue to exist under the state’s law enforcement structure.
Speaking at a weekly press briefing at the Secretariat, the adviser said the decision on whether the RAB name will remain or be replaced lies with the Ministry of Home Affairs. He, however, stressed that the existence of a specialised elite force is necessary for the state.
Dr Zahed said such a force is equipped with advanced technology and specialised training, and that it will continue in some form - either under the current name or a new designation - operating strictly under well-defined legal frameworks.
He added that while there has been criticism of RAB over alleged human rights violations in the past, the government has made it clear that there will be no scope for misuse of any security force under the current democratic administration.
Responding to past calls from the BNP and others for abolishing the unit, he said the government is instead considering reforms, including a new legal framework and possible renaming of the force.
The adviser also noted that RAB has played a significant role in controlling serious crimes that could not be effectively handled by conventional police units.
He further said that a democratically elected government has both the responsibility and incentive to ensure accountability in law enforcement, as it remains answerable to the public through elections.
Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon and Chief Information Officer Syed Abdal Ahmad were also present at the briefing.
-6a60a39f1f971.jpg "Outgoing Navy chief meets PM at Secretariat")
