Dhaka, Dec 28 (V7N) — Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner Sheikh Md. Sajjat Ali has expressed regret over the police's handling of the student uprising earlier this year, stating that many lives could have been saved if the force had taken the right decisions at the right time.

Speaking at a general meeting at the Rajarbagh Police Auditorium on Saturday afternoon, the commissioner acknowledged the shortcomings in the police's response. “If the police had made the right decision 72 hours before August 5, many lives could have been saved, including those of police personnel,” he said.

Commissioner Sajjat Ali also addressed the broader implications of the events, noting that the police force’s reputation suffered during the July mass uprising. He urged officers to focus on rebuilding trust through dedicated public service. “The image of the police, lost during the uprising, must be regained through service,” he emphasised.

Criticising the lack of impact from highly educated police personnel, he remarked, “There is no point in police members having barrister or doctorate degrees if they are not utilised in the work of the force.”

Reflecting on his personal struggles, the commissioner admitted, “I still feel ashamed to introduce myself as a police officer. I can’t come out of the trauma. To overcome this, I must serve people.”

He also urged police associations to play a more active and effective role in times of crisis, stressing the importance of being better prepared for similar situations in the future.

The commissioner’s candid remarks highlight the challenges faced by law enforcement in maintaining public confidence and responding effectively to crises.

END/MSS/AJ