Amid Protests, Bangladesh Bank Rolls Back Dress Code For Women And Men Employees

Last Updated:July 25, 2025, 13:28 IST

The order mandated "modest" attire for male and female employees. Women were asked to wear sarees or salwar kameez, headscarves and hijabs, and formal sandals or shoes.

The order has been withdrawn (Representative image)

The Bangladesh Bank has reportedly withdrawn the new dress code following a massive backlash against the government by the employees. Notably, the new dress code restricted the female employees from wearing short dresses, clothing with short sleeves, and leggings.

Women were asked only to wear sarees or salwar kameez, headscarves and hijabs, and formal sandals or shoes. Not only were the restrictions imposed on women, by men too were ordered to discontinue wearing jeans and chino trousers.

However, after major criticism, the order was withdrawn by Arif Hossain, the central bank’s executive director and spokesperson.

According to a statement cited by Bangladesh outlet The Business Standard, Arif in an official statement, said, “Considering the social context of all levels of officers and employees working in Bangladesh Bank, a decision was taken in the discussion of the respective departmental meetings to advise them to wear professional and elegant clothes during office hours."

“However, no policy decision was taken in this regard and no circular was issued in this regard. When this internal matter came to the notice of the governor, who is abroad, through the media, he expressed his displeasure, and as per his instructions, the matter has been withdrawn at this time," the statement added.

The governor’s statement comes a few days after an order was issued for the employees to wear “modest" attire. The order drew major criticism and protest.

Bangladesh

News world Amid Protests, Bangladesh Bank Rolls Back Dress Code For Women And Men Employees