Dhaka: Finance Adviser Dr Salehuddin Ahmed announced that the government is currently scrutinizing the proposed procurement process for body cameras to ensure transparency, rational planning, and appropriate application in sensitive operational areas across the country. He made these remarks while addressing reporters after presiding over two meetings of the Advisers Council Committee on Economic Affairs and the Advisers Council Committee on Government Purchase at the Cabinet Division Conference Room at Bangladesh Secretariat today.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Dr Salehuddin highlighted that the initial proposal called for a significant number of body cameras, which led the committees to request a re-evaluation of the plan, costs, and procurement strategy. “There was a proposal for a significant number of body cameras. We have advised them to review it and return with a revised proposal, including price details. The most important aspect is to ensure a transparent procurement process,” he stated.
The Finance Adviser emphasized that the revised proposal is anticipated to employ a more rational and need-based approach. “The procurement should be rational. We suggested that body cameras be used in particularly sensitive and critical areas, not everywhere,” he noted, mentioning that the Home Ministry also concurs with this perspective. He elaborated that the introduction of body cameras aims to bolster monitoring, accountability, and evidence-based actions when necessary. “The idea is not to deploy body cameras indiscriminately, but to ensure they serve their intended purpose where sensitivity and oversight are crucial,” he added.
When questioned about the potential reduction in the number of body cameras, Dr Salehuddin suggested that the numbers are likely to be rationalized. He also confirmed that the revised proposal is expected to be submitted in the near future. The government had previously approved the procurement of around 40,000 body cameras for police personnel on September 23, intended for use during the upcoming national election scheduled for February. The procurement process is to be conducted through the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to guarantee quality, transparency, and neutrality.