Police DIG Suspended Over Eight-Month Absence

The government has temporarily suspended Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Biplob Bijoy Talukdar after he remained absent from his workplace for approximately eight months without authorisation, according to an official notification issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs.

The suspension order was issued in the name of the President through a gazette notification signed by Senior Secretary of the Ministry of Home Affairs, Monjur Morshed Chowdhury, on Wednesday. The ministry publicly confirmed the decision on Thursday.

According to the notification, Talukdar, who was attached to the Police Telecom unit at Rajarbagh, had been absent from his assigned workplace since 6 October of the previous year without obtaining permission from the relevant authorities. The government stated that such conduct falls under punishable offences categorised as “misconduct” and “desertion” under the Government Servants (Discipline and Appeal) Rules.

The order specifies that the suspension will be considered effective from the date on which he became absent from duty. Authorities cited the applicable provisions of the Government Servants (Discipline and Appeal) Rules in taking the disciplinary measure.

The case has drawn attention within administrative circles because of the seniority of the officer involved. As a DIG, Talukdar occupied one of the higher-ranking positions within the Bangladesh Police hierarchy, a role that carries significant responsibilities in law enforcement administration, operational management and institutional oversight.

Government service regulations in Bangladesh require public officials to maintain regular attendance and obtain prior approval for extended leave or absence. Failure to comply with these requirements can lead to disciplinary proceedings, particularly when the absence is prolonged and unauthorised. Under the disciplinary framework governing public servants, authorities may initiate investigations and impose administrative sanctions where misconduct is established.

The notification did not provide details regarding the reasons behind Talukdar’s prolonged absence. It also did not indicate whether any separate departmental inquiry or further disciplinary proceedings are currently underway. Such matters are typically handled in accordance with established civil service rules and procedures.

Talukdar joined the Bangladesh Police in 2001 through the 20th Bangladesh Civil Service (BCS) examination as an Assistant Superintendent of Police. Over the course of his career, he served in various positions within the police force and gradually rose through the ranks.

In 2023, he was promoted to the rank of Deputy Inspector General, marking a significant milestone in his professional career. His appointment to the senior position reflected more than two decades of service within the country’s law enforcement system.

The latest government action underscores the importance attached to accountability and compliance with public service regulations. Administrative authorities have repeatedly emphasised that all government officials, regardless of rank or designation, are subject to the same disciplinary rules and standards of conduct.

While the temporary suspension represents an immediate administrative measure, the case may continue to attract attention as authorities determine whether additional action is warranted under the relevant disciplinary provisions.

For now, Talukdar remains suspended from service, with the order taking effect retrospectively from the date of his unauthorised absence, according to the official government notification.