Dhaka:BNP acting secretary general Ruhul Kabir Rizvi expressed concern on Tuesday over remarks made by the Inspector General of Police (IGP) regarding the potential reinstatement of crossfire, which he believes have caused discomfort within the government.
According to United News of Bangladesh, Rizvi stated that the comments by the IGP, who is a part of the government, about crossfire were deeply saddening. He added that if the remarks were unintentional, it would be a different issue, but as they stand, they place the government in an awkward position.
Rizvi made these remarks during the inauguration of a free medical camp in front of the BNP's central office at Nayapaltan, Dhaka, marking the 48th founding anniversary of Jatiyatabadi Jubo Dal. He emphasized that there are adequate laws in place to combat terrorism and crime, and it is the responsibility of law enforcement agencies to enforce them.
He highlighted the country's history of enduring 17 years of what he described as inhumane misrule involving crossfire killings, enforced disappearances, secret killings, and bloodshed. Rizvi noted that after years of struggle against such practices, the country saw the July uprising and August 5, followed by the BNP coming to power through a free and fair electoral process.
Rizvi also mentioned that people across the country expect a humane Bangladesh under Tarique Rahman's leadership. He pointed out that Rahman's commitment to building a humane Bangladesh is reflected in initiatives such as the Family Card and Farmers' Card, as well as canal excavation programs, which are aimed at making Bangladesh a more livable country.
He addressed concerns about rising juvenile delinquency and crime in several areas of Dhaka, stating his belief that the police force has many honest and capable officers who can effectively tackle crime if allowed to work without influence. Rizvi asserted that extrajudicial methods could never be an effective way to control crime, whether through enforced disappearances or crossfire killings.
Additionally, Inspector General of Police Md Ali Hossain Fakir mentioned on Monday that the police might resort to crossfire if the government allows it and if it becomes necessary to maintain law and order and curb crimes.