His Dream Was to Be a Constable, Now Bachchu Is an ASP

His dream began in childhood, playing with his father's Ansar uniform, boots, and belt. The journey toward that dream was marked by failure, uncertainty, and countless challenges. But Bachchu Rahman never gave up. The young man who failed the preliminary examination of the 45th BCS has now emerged as the top candidate in the Police Cadre of the 47th BCS. In an exclusive interview with Agamir Somoy, he speaks candidly about the story behind his success, his preparation strategy, and his aspirations for the future. Interview by Manik Raihan Bappy.

Agamir Somoy: Congratulations, Bachchu Rahman. How does it feel to rank first in the police cadre?

Bachchu Rahman: Honestly, I never imagined I would finish first. The written exam for the 47th BCS was much different and more difficult than in previous years. Even after the exam, I wasn't sure how I had performed or whether I would get a cadre position at all. That's why becoming the top candidate in the police cadre is beyond words. The only thing I clearly remember is shouting with joy after seeing the results. I couldn't speak. I couldn't believe I had ranked first. I checked my roll number several times and even asked my brother to verify it.

Agamir Somoy: Why was the police cadre your first choice?

Bachchu Rahman: Since childhood, my dream was to become a police constable. My father was a member of Ansar, and I grew up playing with his uniform, boots, and belt. That's where my fascination with the police and military began. After enrolling at the University of Dhaka, I learned that I could become an Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) through the BCS. From then on, I set my goal on the police cadre. During university, I read newspapers extensively. Reports on violence against women, rape, drug trafficking, and cybercrime strengthened my determination to work against these crimes.

Agamir Somoy: How did you decide to prepare for the BCS?

Bachchu Rahman: I was admitted to the Marketing Department at the University of Dhaka in 2018. Initially, I wanted to become a university teacher. But after poor results in my first two semesters, I realized that dream was no longer realistic. I then turned my attention to government service. Once I learned that BCS could lead to becoming an ASP, I became determined to pursue that path.

Agamir Somoy: What was your preparation strategy?

Bachchu Rahman: I came from a commerce background, so I never believed in memorization alone. I read newspapers every day alongside BCS books. I focused on science, current affairs, economics, and international relations. I also spent a lot of time thinking critically about what I studied. I used Google, Quora, and international educational resources to understand topics in depth. Memorizing information isn't enough—you need to know why something happens and how problems can be solved.

Agamir Somoy: What helped you perform well in the written exam?

Bachchu Rahman: My main focus was always the written exam. I studied intensively for five to six months, which also covered most of the preliminary syllabus. During the written exam, I answered questions directly without unnecessary introductions. I wrote concise, point-based, fact-driven answers and paid close attention to time management. My habit of reading newspapers proved extremely valuable.

Agamir Somoy: What was your biggest challenge during preparation?

Bachchu Rahman: I often studied 14 to 15 hours a day, which caused some physical problems. Since I focused only on the BCS and ignored other job opportunities, I sometimes worried about my future. But my family, friends, and younger brothers constantly encouraged me.

Agamir Somoy: You ranked first in the education cadre as well. Why weren't you satisfied?

Bachchu Rahman: I ranked first in Marketing in the 49th BCS. Teaching is a highly respected profession, but I believe serving in the police offers greater opportunities to help people directly. That's why I chose the police cadre.

Agamir Somoy: What are your future goals?

Bachchu Rahman: I'd like to work in investigative units such as the Police Bureau of Investigation (PBI), Criminal Investigation Department (CID), or Detective Branch (DB). I also want to pursue higher studies in criminology. My goal is to work against violence against women, drug-related crimes, and cybercrime while helping build public trust in the police.

Agamir Somoy: What advice would you give BCS candidates?

Bachchu Rahman: Don't study only to get a job—study to gain knowledge. Read newspapers regularly. Build a strong understanding of Bangladesh's history, Constitution, economy, and international affairs. Read original books and develop analytical thinking.

Agamir Somoy: Which failure motivated you the most?

Bachchu Rahman: I failed the preliminary exam in the 45th BCS despite studying hard. After that, I became determined to prepare so well that I could score 150 out of 200 in any preliminary exam. Later, failing the written exam in the 46th BCS pushed me to work even harder. I never became discouraged. Instead, every failure helped me identify my weaknesses.

Agamir Somoy: Where do you see yourself in five to ten years?

Bachchu Rahman: I'm not concerned about rank or title. I want to become an honest, competent, and compassionate police officer. People usually turn to doctors or the police in times of crisis. I want to serve in a way that earns people's trust. Working with integrity for the people of Bangladesh would be my greatest achievement.

Agamir Somoy: Thank you.

Bachchu Rahman: Thank you very much.