Islamization in Bangladesh Army: Female Soldiers Now Allowed to Wear Hijab Under New Regulations

With the fall of Sheikh Hasina's government, the pace of Islamization in Bangladesh has accelerated, affecting not just the civilian sector but also the country’s military. For the first time, the Bangladesh Army has permitted female soldiers to wear the hijab, reflecting the growing influence of hardline Islamic groups on government and military policies. This marks a significant shift in the military’s dress code, as wearing hijab in the army was previously prohibited since women were first allowed to serve in 2000.

New Directives Allow Hijab for Female Soldiers

According to reports from Bangladeshi media, the Bangladesh Army has issued new directives stating that female soldiers who wish to wear the hijab may now do so. The Adjutant General's office has released an official order that makes the wearing of hijabs optional for female military personnel, including officers, nursing staff, and other service members. This decision was finalized during the PSO conference on September 3, where it was determined that hijabs could now be worn with the military uniform.

Key Changes to Army Dress Code for Women

The new regulations detail specific guidelines on how the hijab should be integrated into different uniforms, such as combat uniforms, working uniforms, and sarees. Samples of hijabs, including fabric type, color, and measurements, are being prepared to ensure uniformity. Female soldiers wearing these hijabs must send colored photographs to the relevant department by September 26 for review.

Historical Background of Women in the Bangladesh Army

The recruitment of women into the Bangladesh Army began in 1997, when they were allowed to serve as officers, similar to men. The first female officers joined the military in 2000, and by 2013, women were also recruited as soldiers. However, despite these advancements, women in Bangladesh are still not permitted to serve as officers in the infantry and armor corps.

Public Reaction and Implications

The decision to allow hijabs in the military comes amid growing pressure from conservative and hardline Islamic factions. While some view this as a step toward inclusivity and religious freedom, others see it as a sign of the increasing influence of radical groups on the nation’s institutions. The optional nature of the hijab provides female soldiers the freedom to choose, but it also raises questions about the future of secularism in Bangladesh's military and government.

This development underscores the evolving role of women in the military and highlights the ongoing tension between modernity and religious conservatism in Bangladesh.