The Police Reform Commission of Bangladesh is gearing up to propose transformative changes to enhance policing standards and safeguard human rights. Among its key recommendations, the commission plans to enforce stringent limits on using lethal force during confrontations with violent demonstrators and push for the enforcement of Supreme Court directives, specifically addressing abuses related to Section 54 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC).
Founded on October 3, 2024, by the interim government, the commission has adopted the United Nations Police guidelines, notably those implemented in Kosovo, to cultivate community-centered policing in Bangladesh. Safar Raj Hossain, the commission’s chief, emphasized the necessity for police to prioritize civilians’ human rights, aiming to rectify a historical neglect.
In a bid to modernize dated laws from the colonial era, the commission is focused on revising Section 54 of the CrPC, notorious for enabling warrantless arrests that have often led to abuses. They intend to reinforce the 2016 Supreme Court guidelines, which set forth directives for law enforcement and judicial bodies, to mitigate misuse of authority and bolster accountability.
During his dialogue with New Age, Hossain highlighted the essential collaboration required between the police and the communities they serve. To mitigate political interference, the commission proposes establishing an independent complaint body, relying on the next parliamentary assembly to implement this vital reform.
Hossain pointed out the correlations between a thriving democracy and the effective policing system, stressing that the ruling powers should not exploit law enforcement for political campaigns. He called for a structural overhaul to redefine the police as a service-oriented entity focused on community engagement.
Recognizing the entrenched political influence, he stated, “Political influence in the police was created by politicians. Again it’s the politicians who have to materialise the reform of the police.” He concluded that transforming the police’s role is daunting but crucial.
The commission aims to modernize not only police administration but also the laws governing police work. While not tasked with enacting laws, they will propose reforms to the relevant ministry and current government. Recruitment of individuals with disabilities into the police force is also on the agenda, aiming to provide support to victims of the protests back in July.
Other reforms include upgrading police housing, alleviating excessive workloads, and enhancing work-life balance through regular leave. Additionally, the commission proposes linking training success to promotions, incentivizing professional development. Addressing budget constraints, their recommendations emphasize the importance of funding investigations to relieve officers of the financial burdens they currently shoulder.
The Police Reform Commission in Bangladesh plans to implement significant recommendations focusing on human rights in policing. Strategies include limiting lethal force, revising outdated laws, and promoting community-oriented policing standards. Key proposals also involve establishing an independent complaint commission to prevent political misuse of police power and modernizing police administration practices.
The Police Reform Commission is embarking on a vital journey to reshape policing in Bangladesh, with a strong emphasis on human rights and community collaboration. By introducing restrictions on police authority and advocating for modernized practices, it is poised to restore public trust and create a more effective law enforcement system. The success of these reforms hinges on political will and the commitment to a more democratic society.
Police reform in Bangladesh has become a pressing issue, primarily due to concerns over human rights violations and political misuse of law enforcement. With the commission’s establishment amid ongoing civil unrest, there is an urgent need for a comprehensive overhaul of policing practices to build public trust and ensure community safety. By drawing on international policing standards and focusing on community engagement, the commission seeks to redefine the function and perception of the police within society.
Original Source: www.newagebd.net
