SRB risks becoming RAB under new name: TIB

Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) has warned that the proposed Special Response Battalion (SRB) could become a rebranded version of the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) unless fundamental reforms are made to its structure, powers, personnel and accountability mechanisms.

In a statement on Sunday, TIB expressed concern over the Special Response Battalion Bill, 2026, saying the proposed law gives the new force broad and ambiguous powers while providing inadequate safeguards against abuse.

TIB Executive Director Dr Iftekharuzzaman said abolishing RAB was a long-overdue decision, but simply changing the force’s name would not constitute institutional reform.

He called for fundamental changes to prevent a recurrence of allegations of extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances and torture associated with RAB.

TIB also raised concerns about provisions allowing searches and arrests without warrants based on suspicion, the use of firearms and force, and the establishment of detention and interrogation facilities.

The anti-graft watchdog urged authorities to bar the transfer of RAB personnel to the SRB without transparent and impartial vetting.

It also called for an independent civilian oversight body to investigate complaints against SRB members instead of an internal mechanism.

TIB further opposed the inclusion of armed forces personnel in the proposed force, warning that this could perpetuate the use of military tactics in internal law enforcement.

The organisation said the abolition of RAB presents an opportunity for genuine law-enforcement reform and urged the government to ensure clear limits on SRB’s powers, independent oversight, judicial safeguards and effective accountability.