Bangladesh proposes replacing RAB with SRB
Analysis based on 6 articles · First reported Aug 06, 2026 · Last updated Aug 15, 2026
The proposed reform is unlikely to have direct market impact, as it concerns domestic law enforcement restructuring. However, it may signal improved governance and accountability, potentially enhancing Bangladesh's international reputation and investor sentiment.
The Bangladesh has published a draft law, the Bangladesh — Special Response Battalion (SRB) Act, 2026, proposing to dissolve the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) and replace it with a new specialised unit, the Bangladesh — Special Response Battalion (SRB), under the Bangladesh. The draft was uploaded to the India — Ministry of External Affairs website for public consultation. The SRB would be headed by a Director General with the rank of Additional Inspector General, headquartered in Dhaka, and would retain most of RAB's operational powers, including search, arrest, and investigation authority. A key addition is a Complaint Redress Committee to address allegations against personnel, responding to longstanding criticism of RAB over extrajudicial killings and human rights violations. The draft will be circulated among ministries, then placed before the Cabinet and Parliament for enactment. Upon enactment, all RAB assets, personnel, funds, and cases would transfer to the SRB.
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