Dhaka: A recent survey has revealed that the public overwhelmingly desires a police force free from corruption and political influence, emphasizing the need for an independent institution that upholds law and order without bias. The survey underscores the public's call for a law-abiding police service that serves all citizens equally, regardless of their identity. According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the survey conducted by the Police Reform Commission (PRC) found that a significant 89.5 percent of respondents want to halt the use of the police force for political purposes. Additionally, 77.9 percent of participants expressed their desire for the police to refrain from engaging in corruption through the misuse of power. The survey also highlighted that 74.9 percent of respondents advocated for holding the police accountable for rights violations, including enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings. Titled 'What kind of police do we want (kemon police chai),' the public survey emerged amidst re cent criticism both in Bangladesh and internationally regarding the violent actions of some police personnel during the suppression of an anti-discrimination student movement. In response to these concerns, the interim government established the 'Police Reform Commission' to initiate reforms within the police force. The findings of the survey are now accessible on the website of the Police Reform Commission (www.prc.mhapsd.gov.bd), as stated in a press release from the home ministry. The Police Reform Commission has received input from 24,442 individuals from various sectors following its call for public opinion submissions by November 15, 2024.
