Prominent political figures and civil society leaders gathered Saturday in Dhaka to discuss police reform measures. The roundtable at the Daily Star Centre focused on creating an independent oversight body for Bangladesh's law enforcement agencies. Former Additional IGP Motiur Rahman Sheikh delivered the main presentation, calling for an autonomous commission. He recommended a nine-to eleven-member panel featuring former judges, government officials, human rights advocates, journalists, and civil society members. Women's participation would strengthen the commission's independence and public trust.
BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed acknowledged that every ruling party since independence had exploited police forces for political purposes. He emphasized the need for genuine oversight rather than symbolic gestures. The commission would investigate officer complaints, manage recruitment processes, and recommend structural changes. Ahmed promised comprehensive police reforms if his party assumes power. SHUJAN Secretary Badiul Alam Majumdar criticized the outdated 1861 police legislation and advocated for modern accountability measures.
BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed acknowledged that every ruling party since independence had exploited police forces for political purposes. He emphasized the need for genuine oversight rather than symbolic gestures. The commission would investigate officer complaints, manage recruitment processes, and recommend structural changes. Ahmed promised comprehensive police reforms if his party assumes power. SHUJAN Secretary Badiul Alam Majumdar criticized the outdated 1861 police legislation and advocated for modern accountability measures.
