RAJSHAHI : Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed today said Bangladesh Police must never function as a political instrument but instead emerge as the people's most trusted ally and a symbol of security, reaffirming the government's commitment to building a professional, accountable and service-oriented police force free from partisan influence.

"Ensuring public safety and transforming the force into a modern, skilled and humane institution remain among the government's top priorities," he said.

Addressing the passing-out parade of the 27th BCS (Police) Batch, Phase-I at the Bangladesh Police Academy in Sardah, the Home Minister said the government has undertaken a series of reforms to restore the morale and professionalism of the police following years of excessive politicisation under the previous administration.

A strict performance-based accountability system has been introduced under which officers demonstrating integrity and bravery are rewarded, while those involved in misconduct or disciplinary violations face punitive action, he said.

Congratulating the newly commissioned Assistant Superintendents of Police (ASPs), Salahuddin said they were joining the force at a defining moment in the country's history and urged them to uphold the rule of law with impartiality.

"From political activists to marginal farmers, every citizen is equal before the law. No one seeking police service should face discrimination," he said.

He stressed that discipline, chain of command, loyalty and coordinated leadership are the cornerstones of an effective police force.

The minister also underscored the growing importance of technological expertise, calling on the new officers to strengthen their capabilities in cyber security and digital crime investigation.

Reiterating the government's zero-tolerance stance against corruption, he urged all police personnel to discharge their responsibilities with honesty, professionalism and dedication.

Expressing confidence in the new officers, he said the 58 graduates would enrich the Bangladesh Police by applying their knowledge, experience and professional skills they had acquired over the years.

He also called on them to perform their duties in line with public expectations while upholding the spirit of the Liberation War and the sacrifices made during the 2024 student-led mass uprising.

The Home Minister later inspected the parade, received the salute and presented awards to outstanding trainees.

Dr Md Nurul Huda Bhuiyan was named Best Probationer and also won the Best in Field Activities award, while ABM Mamun received the Best Shooter award and Abu Numan Mohammad Khairul Islam secured the Best Academic Award.

The ceremony marked the formal induction of 58 officers into active service, including 57 officers from the 27th BCS (Police) Batch, Phase-I and one officer from the 28th BCS (Police) Batch.

Speaking to reporters after the event, the Home Minister said the overall law and order situation remains firmly under government control.

Replying to a question he said, investigations into the recent incidents of recovering two explosive like objects in the capital are underway. DMP Counter Terrorism and Transnational Crime (CTTC) unit has safely neutralised the objects recovered in Ashulia and Motijheel.

He said crime and sabotage incidents remain comparatively low. The government continues to maintain heightened vigilance to safeguard public security.

Explaining the reason of issuing a special alert in the month of August, the minister said, Awami fascist group - which is now banned, observes some political activities this month. Mainly that’s why everyone has been asked to remain on alert."