Police personnel have demanded a separate pay scale, along with risk and overtime allowances, during a welfare meeting with Prime Minister (PM) Tarique Rahman on Sunday.

They also called for honorary promotions before retirement and improved logistical support to strengthen operational efficiency.

The demands were raised at a police welfare meeting held at the Rajarbagh Police Auditorium in Dhaka following the inauguration of Police Week 2026. Senior officials, including the Home Minister, Home Secretary, Inspector General of Police and other top police officials, were present.

Officials who attended the meeting said the prime minister listened attentively and assured phased implementation of the proposals.

A senior official at Police Headquarters said a separate pay structure has long been a demand of the force. Bangladesh’s judiciary and armed forces already have distinct pay scales, and police members argued that given their extensive service to the public, they deserve similar consideration.

An additional police officer formally proposed the introduction of risk allowances and compensation for overtime duties, citing the irregular and extended working hours officers routinely face.

Kamrul Hasan Talukder, officer-in-charge of Airport Police Station and president of the Bangladesh Police Association, said officers often work beyond scheduled hours without additional pay and requested that the government consider both overtime and risk allowances.

Sub-inspectors, who conduct the bulk of criminal investigations at police stations, also face transport shortages. Talukder called for interest-free loans to purchase motorcycles and reimbursement for fuel costs to speed up investigations. He noted that rising investigation expenses should also be reviewed and adjusted.

A female constable from Khulna Metropolitan Police proposed the introduction of step-by-step honorary promotions for officers from constable to inspector rank before retirement, similar to practices in the armed forces. She argued that such promotions would not require additional government funding but would boost morale and dignity among retiring personnel.

A Deputy Inspector General at the meeting urged the government to resume long-suspended development funding for constructing police stations, barracks and operational facilities across the country.

Multiple officials confirmed that Prime Minister Tarique assured participants their demands would be reviewed and addressed gradually. On Monday, he is scheduled to meet senior police officers at his office and deliver a speech as part of Police Week 2026.

Earlier on Sunday, Tarique inaugurated Police Week at Rajarbagh Police Lines, attended the annual police assembly and parade, and visited stalls organized by the Police Women Welfare Association.

In his address, the prime minister urged officers to ensure that no form of fascism or authoritarianism could again use the police against the country’s independence or its people. He called on police members to recommit to safeguarding public safety and property with professionalism and dedication.

Tarique also praised the force for its professionalism and efficiency during the 13th National Parliamentary Election and said humane conduct is expected not only abroad but also in their service to citizens at home.