Juvenile crimes committed by teen gangs are increasing at an alarming rate across the country including in the capital city. The violence of juvenile gangs is allegedly increasing with the help of influential people. Rogue juvenile gangs are becoming more active in Mirpur, Uttara, and Tejgaon areas. To consolidate political power in different sectors, the ruling party has destabilised all social, academic, administrative, and constitutional, making our children desperate and audacious.
There are at least 42 teen gangs active in Dhaka. Law enforcers have arrested at least 370 members of teen gangs from 64 drives in the last two and a half years. Ruling party men provide buttress to the gangster for committing different crimes and establishing a reign of terror.
Almost daily we see media reports of youngsters involved in gruesome crimes. They are engaged in gang violence, murder, eve-teasing, rape, the list goes on, indicating that moral values in society are on the decline. Law enforcers alone cannot bring the situation under control. Parents and schools have a major role to play as well, as they should instill ethical values in children from very early on. Guardians must supervise the company their children keep and ensure that they stay away from drugs — because it is often reported that juveniles involved in crimes also tend to be drug users. If this is to be mended, we must all actively engage in finding the right solutions.
Experts said children are getting involved in various crimes instigated by adults, and as a result, teen gangs are being formed. Proper implementation of a community-based child protection strategy is the only way to ensure a reduction in juvenile delinquency and justice in society. Under the Juvenile Justice Act 1974, two juvenile courts were established but the current situation requires at least one juvenile court in each district and metropolitan area to ensure justice for children.
We must restore the moral compass and a social movement with respect to cultural heritage, and social and religious values should be initiated now that enable our next generation to be involved in productive works.
