Criminal activities on the rise due to Criminal activities are gradually increasing across the country, raising concerns about the effectiveness of law enforcement agencies. Despite the launch of special operations, the crime rate has not seen a significant decline. The growing instability has led to questions about the capacity of the interim government to tackle law and order issues. Many believe that allies of the previous Awami League government are playing a role in destabilizing the situation.
Sources indicate that a majority of law enforcement personnel were appointed during the Awami League’s tenure, and some of them are allegedly working behind the scenes to undermine the interim government. Following the mass student and public uprising of August 5, which led to the end of Sheikh Hasina’s long rule, the Nobel laureate-led interim government under Dr. Muhammad Yunus has been struggling to maintain stability. Seven months into governance, the situation remains volatile.
It is suspected that former officials of the previous government, many of whom have left the country, are actively instigating unrest. The on-ground execution of these plans is allegedly being carried out by their associates within law enforcement and other institutions. Despite these challenges, the ‘Police Reform Commission’ established by the interim government has already submitted a report suggesting necessary changes to improve law enforcement efficiency. If implemented, these reforms could significantly enhance the effectiveness of the police force.
Dr. Umar Farooq, a professor in the Department of Criminology and Police Science at Maulana Bhashani University of Science and Technology, stated, “Most police officials were appointed during the previous government, and many were involved in repression. As a result, they now fear internal purges, legal actions, transfers, and demotions. This fear has weakened the force’s ability to function properly. A comprehensive police reform process is necessary to identify and punish those guilty of wrongdoing while allowing dedicated officers to continue their work.”
He further added, “The police force is struggling to regain confidence in the current situation. Many officers fear that taking active measures could result in repercussions similar to those faced by officials under the previous regime. This hesitation has led to an overall reluctance to perform their duties effectively.”
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Police Reform in Crisis: Post-Government Fall Chaos and Internal Struggles: Amid rising concerns over law enforcement effectiveness, the police force in Bangladesh finds itself in a state of anxiety and uncertainty following the fall of the Awami League government on August 5. Allegations of past political manipulation, excessive force, and internal instability continue to plague the police, raising questions about their ability to maintain law and order in the new political landscape.
Psychological Strain on Law Enforcement Officers: Criminology expert Dr. Umar Farooq has highlighted the mental distress suffered by police officers who were previously used as political instruments by the former government. He stated, “The policemen who were ideologically or politically used by the previous government are now mentally devastated. They have not been punished or brought under the law yet, but they are living in fear and anxiety. This makes it difficult for them to perform their professional duties.”
Conversations with multiple officers, particularly from specialized police units and the Chittagong range, reveal that many are apprehensive about taking decisive action. Officers fear being associated with past government repression and worry that their actions may be scrutinized or used against them. Consequently, many prefer to remain inactive until a new, elected government assumes power.
A Legacy of Political Suppression and the Need for Reform: The quota reform movement that began in July last year escalated into a mass uprising that eventually led to the downfall of the Awami League government. Thousands of students and civilians reportedly lost their lives due to heavy-handed police intervention, fueling deep-seated public resentment. The police’s involvement in suppressing the movement has left an indelible mark, causing trust in law enforcement to plummet.
The crisis has also affected police morale. Many officers lost their lives in the post-government-collapse violence, and the overall cohesion of the force has weakened. Following these events, the police presented an 11-point demand for reform, emphasizing the need for changes in the structure and accountability of the force.
Police Reform Commission and Recommendations: Recognizing the crisis, the interim government established the ‘Police Reform Commission’ on October 3, 2024, under the leadership of former Secretary Safar Raj Hossain. The commission has already submitted its report, which includes recommendations on limiting excessive force, ensuring transparency in arrests and detentions, and upholding human rights standards.
A former senior police officer, speaking anonymously, remarked, “For years, the Bangladesh police force has been used as a political tool rather than a public service institution. This must change. The student movement has created an opportunity for real reform. If the commission’s proposals are implemented, the police force will be greatly improved.”
Resistance from Within and Political Conspiracies: Despite efforts to reform, challenges persist. Some law enforcement officers have been accused of covertly working against the interim government. Former Inspector General Benazir Ahmed, known for his controversial tenure, allegedly participated in a virtual meeting where he claimed that 90 percent of police officers and administrators remain loyal to the Awami League.
Sources suggest that several high-ranking officials from the previous administration, now in exile, are instigating unrest. Additionally, reports indicate that officials who benefited from the Awami League regime have temporarily shifted their stance but continue to exert influence behind the scenes.
A Call for Swift Reforms: Experts argue that the current situation presents a unique opportunity to implement meaningful police reforms. While forming the Police Reform Commission was a positive step, further actions are necessary to dismantle deep-rooted political influences. Structural, cultural, and legal changes are essential to restoring public trust in the police force.
Despite internal resistance, some law enforcement officers continue to work diligently to maintain stability. The government must ensure that the reforms initiated by the commission are not just recommendations but are implemented effectively to rebuild the police force as an impartial institution dedicated to public service rather than political loyalty. The road ahead remains uncertain, but without swift action, the crisis within the police force could deepen, further jeopardizing national stability and security.
