IGP Baharul Alam Requests to Surrender Diplomatic Passport Ahead of Election

On February 3, he sent a formal letter to the Senior Secretary of the Ministry of Home Affairs requesting a No Objection Certificate (NOC) for this transition.

The move has triggered significant speculation within the administration, as Baharul Alam’s contractual appointment is not set to expire until November 20, 2026. With eight months still remaining in his tenure, the sudden request has led to rumors regarding a potential departure from the country following the election, especially amid pressure from certain political groups for his removal.

This decision reflects a broader trend among top officials of the interim government. At least six advisors—including those heading the Finance, Home, and Power ministries—as well as several senior secretaries and high-court judges, have reportedly initiated the same process. Observers suggest this is a strategic move to avoid administrative delays or legal hurdles in obtaining a private passport and the necessary travel clearances once they are no longer in office.

While Foreign Advisor Md. Touhid Hossain clarified that he and his wife have not surrendered their diplomatic passports, he noted that doing so in advance simplifies visa and travel logistics for those planning to go abroad immediately after their tenure. When asked about the motives behind his own application, IGP Baharul Alam declined to provide a direct explanation.