Autonomy of the Police
Discipline, security, progress, these theme words are not too unfamiliar to us. Bangladesh police is guided by these three principles. The vision of Bangladesh police as enshrined in its website is to provide quality service by competent, efficient and dedicated professionals maintaining trust and respect of citizens to make the country a better and safer place to live. As part of mission this force is committed to enforce law, maintain social order, curbing crime, enhance public safety and ensure domestic security with the active support of common mass.
Unfortunately, the autonomy of the disciplined force is not beyond question as they are being often used politically. Ministry of Home Affairs is in charge of maintenance of the force. The reluctance of government to enable them to work independently is a threat to the vision and mission of the force.
In civilized countries police play a crucial role to uphold dignity of people through maintaining law and order situation while in third world countries they are engaged in different crimes undermining the commitment and spirit of the force. People should treat them as friend in danger but in reality people are scared here. Common people are deprived of services of police and only few influential people are able receive their services because of political or personal influence and credibility. Also promotion of police officers and staff in the country depends on their political background not on their performance creating a big hindrance for their professionalism and autonomy. So, let’s hope that the government will take necessary steps to ensure autonomy of the police force paving the way for services to the common people.
Md. Nahin Hasan Tusher
Southeast University
