Every important position within the state machinery is not merely a responsibility, but a symbol of public trust. The appointment of Additional IGP Md. Ahsan Habib Palash as the Director General of RAB represents a renewed expression of that trust. This is not just an administrative decision—it is a reflection of the demands of time, an embodiment of expectation, where competence, integrity, and intellectual depth converge in one individual.
On behalf of The Tourist, we extend our deepest respect, heartfelt congratulations, and best wishes for his journey ahead.
RAB stands as one of Bangladesh’s most significant and sensitive law enforcement agencies. Leading such a force requires not only firmness, but also a careful balance of wisdom, humanity, and foresight. Additional IGP Ahsan Habib Palash exemplifies this balance. During his tenure as the former DIG of Chattogram Range, he demonstrated prudence, resilience, and a strong sense of human responsibility—qualities that have rightfully brought him to this distinguished position.
While his administrative excellence is widely acknowledged, another remarkable dimension of his personality sets him apart—his deep love for books. In an era where people are increasingly absorbed in digital devices, a senior police official who considers books to be the most valuable gift in life is truly exceptional.
I still vividly recall that serene morning last year at the Chattogram Range office, when I had the privilege of meeting him. When I presented him with my book, “Sangbadik O Sangbadpatrer Kotha” (On Journalists and Newspapers), I witnessed the genuine joy of a true reader reflected in his eyes. His simple yet profound words—“The most valuable gift is a book”—have remained an enduring lesson for me.
He does not merely read books; he lives through them. Books, for him, are instruments of self-development, gateways to deeper thought, and sources of enlightenment. He has expressed concern about the growing detachment of the younger generation from reading, yet he remains optimistic. He believes that with the right initiatives, vibrant book fairs, and collective cultural efforts, young people can be encouraged to return to the world of books.
His participation as a special guest at the Ekushey Book Fair organized by Chattogram City Corporation reflected this belief. He emphasized that a book fair should not be seen merely as a marketplace, but as a festival of culture, a meeting ground of ideas, and a celebration of knowledge. His perspective urges society to reconsider the true value of books and reading.
A small yet meaningful anecdote from his life further highlights his intellectual foresight. During his BCS examination, realizing that his name matched that of the renowned writer Ahsan Habib, he prepared himself in literature, anticipating that questions might arise in the viva board. Indeed, his anticipation proved correct. This story is not only interesting, but also a testament to his awareness and dedication to knowledge.
As a police officer, his firmness is essential; as a human being, his sensitivity is equally admirable. He respects writers, values readers, and considers the pursuit of knowledge an integral part of life. His question to me—“How do you manage to write so much?”—was not merely curiosity, but a reflection of a thoughtful and respectful reader’s mindset.
Today, Bangladesh stands at a critical juncture of transformation. While technological advancement has opened new horizons, it has also created a subtle crisis in intellectual and cultural depth. In this context, leadership like that of Additional IGP Ahsan Habib Palash becomes profoundly important.
We believe that under his leadership, RAB will not only uphold law and order with strength, but will also embody humanity, justice, and enlightened values. He has the potential to serve as a guiding light in times of uncertainty.
On behalf of The Tourist, we once again extend our heartfelt congratulations and wish him every success in his new responsibility. We hope that individuals like him will inspire a cultural revival of reading and encourage the younger generation to rediscover the path of knowledge.
For a book is not merely a collection of pages—it is a horizon. And as a guide to that horizon, Additional IGP Ahsan Habib Palash stands as one of the brightest figures of our time.