Exempted trainee SIs rally outside secretariat again

The 40th batch of exempted sub-inspectors of the police resumed their protest outside the Secretariat, demanding reinstatement to their positions.

The sit-in began at 10am on Monday, January 13, along Abdul Gani Road, near gates 1 and 2 of the Secretariat. Holding placards with their demands, the protesters vowed to remain until 5:00pm if their grievances were not addressed.

The protesting SIs highlighted that 321 sub-inspectors were unfairly dismissed during their training period. A prior peaceful demonstration was held on January 5 and 6 in front of the Home Ministry, where a delegation met with the Home Secretary. They were assured of action, but no visible progress has since been made.

One of the protesters, Minhaj Uddin, expressed his frustration, saying: "We were discharged on trivial charges. This mass dismissal is unprecedented in the history of Police Academy Sardah. We demand justice and the reinstatement of our jobs."

Minhaj confirmed his intent to continue the sit-in until 5:00pm.

Another discharged SI, Amlan Mitra, disputed the reasons for his dismissal: "I joined training on November 4, 2023, and was dismissed on November 4, 2024. They labelled me inattentive and disruptive in class. Yet, I ranked among the top 100 out of 804 in the half-yearly exam. If I were inattentive, how could I achieve such results?"

An anonymous protester added: "We trained for a year with immense sacrifice and almost no pay. Being dismissed just as we were to become regular employees is devastating."

The 40th batch of cadet SIs included 823 trainees, who began their basic training on November 4, 2023, at the Police Academy in Sardah, Rajshahi. Over three phases, 313 trainees were reprimanded for alleged disruptive behaviour during field activities and classes. Ultimately, they were dismissed from their roles.

The dismissed SIs argue that the charges against them are baseless and demand a reversal of the dismissal orders. They maintain that the mass discharge is unjust and unprecedented, calling for immediate action from the authorities.

The sit-in is set to continue until their demands are addressed or a clear decision is communicated by the authorities.