Police Week 2025, the largest annual gathering of the Bangladesh Police, is set to begin on April 29, following months of uncertainty.

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus will inaugurate the three-day event at the Rajarbagh Police Lines auditorium.

However, it is still undecided whether he will present the Bangladesh Police Medals (BPM) and President's Police Medals (PPM), which are usually awarded in recognition of year-long service.

Enamul Haque Sagor, assistant inspector general at Police Headquarters, said, "It has been finalised that Police Week will be held on April 29. But it is yet to be decided whether the chief adviser will present the medals."

He said a new system has been introduced to award the BPM and PPM based on year-round merit. A committee has been formed, and officers were asked to submit citations for evaluation.

Police Week is usually held in the first two months of the year. But sources said the force took longer to regroup after a morale crisis following the fall of Sheikh Hasina's government on August 5, amid public protests over police brutality.

Many officers faced criticism for their role in violently suppressing the quota reform and anti-discrimination movements. A senior officer said more than 449 personnel -- including former inspector generals and Dhaka Metropolitan Police commissioners -- have been named in murder cases related to the crackdowns.

"Some officers have gone into hiding or fled the country. We are now reshaping the force with new leadership in key positions. A new uniform is also in the works," said an official.

A senior DMP officer said political instability had put the event in doubt, but the appointment of a new inspector general cleared the way. "The government delayed its approval, but now the focus is on a more low-key, meaningful event."

A deputy inspector general said guidance may be given during the week ahead of the expected December elections. "But whether we can truly break free from political influence remains uncertain -- and that's a concern we hope to raise."

Sources allege that BPM and PPM awards have previously been influenced by political considerations. On February 24, the home ministry revoked medals from 103 officers who received them in 2018 for their roles in the controversial 10th national election.

Fresh allegations suggest lobbying is again taking place, with some officers reportedly using administrative pressure to get on the medal list.

However, Police Headquarters has pledged transparency. "Only deserving candidates will receive the medals," said a senior officer. "Those lobbying for recognition will be excluded."

Fewer than 50 medals are expected to be awarded this year.

There will be no ceremonial parade or presidential meeting this year, according to PHQ sources. The event will begin with an address by the chief adviser.

On April 30 and May 1, various units -- including the Special Branch, CID, RAB, Tourist Police, Railway Police, and Industrial Police -- will give presentations. Meetings with the home adviser, home secretary, and ministry officials will also take place.

Additional events include a PUNAK fair, a citizen dialogue, the annual Police Service Association meeting, and a reunion with retired officers.

The week will conclude with a formal dinner on May 1.