DHAKA: The Police Reform Commission (PRC) has put forth a recommendation for establishing a permanent investigation commission to address allegations of human rights violations by the police force, with 80 percent of surveyed individuals supporting this initiative.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the PRC’s survey titled ‘What kind of police do we want (kemon police chai)’ highlights the need for a focused approach due to the sensitivity of human rights issues.
The survey suggests empowering the National Human Rights Commission to oversee this proposed investigation body. However, it emphasizes the importance of clearly defining the jurisdiction of both the permanent investigation commission and the National Human Rights Commission through legislative measures. This public survey emerges amidst global and national criticism of the police’s violent role in quelling the anti-discrimination student movement in Bangladesh.
Prompted by these events, the interim government established the ‘Police Refor
m Commission’ to initiate reforms within the police force. When asked about handling human rights violation allegations and police power misuse, 60 percent of the 24,442 survey participants advocated for a comprehensive investigation commission. Additionally, 20 percent supported a permanent commission led by a retired High Court justice, while another 20 percent favored investigations by the National Human Rights Commission through amended laws.
The survey underscores the necessity for a law-abiding, independent police force free from corruption and political influence to ensure equitable law and order. It reveals that 89.5 percent of respondents oppose using the police for political purposes, and 77.9 percent demand an end to corruption through power misuse. Furthermore, 74.9 percent call for police accountability in rights violations, including enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings.
This survey is accessible on the Police Reform Commission’s website (www.prc.mhapsd.gov.bd), as noted in a hom
e ministry press release. The PRC has gathered input from 24,442 individuals across various sectors, following requests for opinions by November 15, 2024.