The government has decided to reorganise the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) in accordance with recommendations from the United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), Home Affairs Adviser Lt Gen (retd) Jahangir Alam Chowdhury announced on Monday.
"A committee has already been formed to oversee Rab's reorganisation," said the adviser while briefing the press following the ninth meeting of the Law and Order Advisory Committee at the Secretariat.
One key reform will be the prohibition of lethal weapons for police personnel within Rab, a move aimed at reducing the force’s capacity for excessive use of force.
The decision follows the OHCHR’s February 12 report, which urged the disbandment of Rab, citing serious human rights violations, including alleged extrajudicial killings and enforced disappearances. The same report also recommended that Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) be limited to border duties and DGFI restricted to military intelligence functions.
"We welcome the OHCHR report. It's a positive step, and the government has decided to act accordingly," said the adviser.
In related matters, Jahangir addressed concerns in the ready-made garment (RMG) sector, instructing factory owners to ensure timely payment of wages and Eid-ul-Azha bonuses.
He warned of stern measures if workers take to the streets with what he called "irrational" demands.
Ahead of the upcoming Eid, the adviser announced enhanced security at cattle markets, with 100 Ansar members to be deployed at each location to curb extortion.
He also directed authorities to ensure safe and smooth travel for holidaymakers, citing a surge in inter-district movement during the Eid period.
