The interim government of Bangladesh has officially ended a rule that forced people to call female government officials, including former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina — "Sir." This decision was made during a meeting on Thursday.

The government said the old rule was wrong. They explained, "When Sheikh Hasina was in power for almost 16 years, a rule was made asking officials to call her 'Sir.' Later, this rule was also used for other top female officials. Even today, many female officers are still called 'Sir,' which is not proper or respectful."

A notice from the Office of the Chief Adviser confirmed that this rule has now been cancelled. The government also said they will form a committee to decide the correct way to address officials in the future. The new committee is led by Syeda Rizwana Hasan, who gives advice on energy, roads, railways, environment, and water. This committee has been asked to share its suggestions within one month.

The Council of Advisers not only cancelled the "Sir" rule but also talked about changing other old and confusing rules about how to address officials. The new committee will look at these rules too and suggest updates. The government said they want to make sure officials are given respect in the right way, using proper and respectful words that match social values.

Criticism over calling women ‘Sir’

Many people, both inside and outside the government, had criticised calling women "Sir." It made officials, employees, and journalists feel uncomfortable. Some said they felt forced to use the wrong word or were treated badly when they used the correct term.