This year, complications also emerged regarding awarding of police medals during Police Week. Police sources said the medal distribution process was suspended at the last moment following objections and allegations of irregularities regarding the list of medal recipients.
‘Bangladesh Police Medal (BPM)’ and ‘President’s Police Medal (PPM)’ are awarded every year in recognition of bravery and gallantry. ‘BPM-Seva’ and ‘PPM-Seva’ medals are awarded for notable contribution through solving important cases, crime control, efficiency, devotion to duty, honesty and disciplined conduct.
Additional Inspector General of Police and medal committee convenor Khondkar Rafiqul Islam told Prothom Alo that, like previous years, a list was prepared to award medals to 115 people. Six of them had already received medals. Of the remaining individuals on the list, 107 officers had also participated in Police Week rehearsals. Later, on Saturday night, news emerged that the medal awards had been suspended.
A senior police officer, on condition of anonymity, told Prothom Alo that the relevant government order was not issued on Saturday night due to objections regarding the medal list and allegations of irregularities. The matter is under process. Eligible candidates will receive medals after further verification and scrutiny.
Last year, 62 persons had received BPM and PPM medals during the tenure of the interim government. Earlier in February 2024, 400 people had received BPM and PPM medals under the Awami League government. In 2023, 117 people got medals, while in 2022 this number was 230.