BPM and PPM medals revoked: 103 police officers stripped of honors

Government has withdrawn prestigious awards from 103 police officers for their involvement in the controversial 2018 parliamentary elections. 

These officers, who played a direct role in the 10th National Parliamentary Election on December 30, 2018, have had their Bangladesh Police Medal (BPM) and President Police Medal (PPM) honors revoked.

The Ministry of Home Affairs issued an official notification on Sunday, confirming the decision. 

Senior Assistant Secretary of the Public Security Division, Toucip Ahmed, signed the notification on behalf of the ministry, acting under the direct orders of the President.

The notification made it clear that the medals being withdrawn include the Bangladesh Police Medal (BPM), Bangladesh Police Medal for Service (BPM-Service), President Police Medal (PPM), and President Police Medal for Service (PPM-Service). 

These awards had been given to the 103 officers for their work during the election.

Further, the notification also stated that any financial benefits associated with these awards must be returned by the officers whose medals are being revoked.

This decision comes as the 2018 election remains under scrutiny for its controversies and the direct involvement of the officers in managing the polls, which sparked widespread debate. 

Though the government hasn’t publicly elaborated on the specifics of the reasons behind the withdrawal, it signals a significant step in holding officials accountable for their roles in the disputed election.