The Police Headquarters has issued strict instructions barring unit chiefs from leaving their work stations without prior approval, warning that any violation will be treated as a breach of discipline as the country heads into the national election.

In a letter signed by Additional Inspector General (DIG) Khondker Shamima Yasmin of the Police Headquarters’ Personal Management-1 wing, it was stated that unit heads must obtain prior permission from the Inspector General of Police (IGP) before going on leave or leaving their respective postings for any purpose.

The directive noted that it has recently been observed that some unit chiefs left their work stations without approval from the Police Headquarters, an act described as contrary to discipline. To prevent such incidents, the instruction stressed strict compliance with the approval requirement.

The letter has been sent to all unit heads, including the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) commissioner, the Director General of RAB, range DIGs, metropolitan police commissioners, superintendents of police of all districts, and chiefs of other police units, including the Special Branch (SB).

Police Headquarters sources said the move aims to ensure discipline and continuity in police operations, particularly during the sensitive pre-election period. Any future departure from duty without permission will be considered a disciplinary offence, the sources added.

The authorities expressed hope that the decision would further strengthen administrative discipline within the force.

With formal election campaigning for the 13th Jatiya Sangsad polls beginning on Thursday, police unit chiefs have been specially instructed not to leave their postings until the election to effectively tackle challenges related to maintaining law and order.