Bangladesh Army's female troops allowed to wear hijab with uniform

The authorities also say a policy is being formulated for hijab-wearing

Female members of the Bangladesh Army can now wear hijabs with their uniforms if they choose to.

This decision was announced in an office order from the Adjutant General’s office, making hijab-wearing optional for female army personnel.

The restrictions on wearing hijabs, which applied to female officers, nursing staff (Armed Forces Nursing Service - AFNS), and other ranks, have recently been lifted.

The order read: “A decision was made in principle during the PSO Conference on Sept 3, granting approval to willing female personnel to wear the hijab with their uniform.”

Previously, wearing the hijab, the traditional headscarf covering the head and shoulders, was not permitted with the uniform.

The AG’s office also said a policy is being formulated for hijab-wearing.

The office directive instructed that samples of hijabs compatible with different uniforms (combat uniform, working dress, saree) should be submitted.

The samples should include details of the fabric type, colour, and measurements.

Colour photographs of female personnel wearing the proposed hijab with their uniform (combat uniform, working dress, saree) must also be submitted to the relevant department by Sept 26 for review.