Dhaka, Aug 04 (V7N)- Two years after the student uprising, questions remain over whether the country's law and order situation has returned to normal. Despite various initiatives to restore stability, police reform, public confidence and effective law enforcement continue to face challenges.
The role of the police during the 2024 student uprising drew widespread criticism over allegations of excessive force, shootings and violence against protesters and civilians. Many believe those incidents will remain a painful chapter in the country's history.
Following the fall of the former government on August 5, 2024, angry crowds attacked and set fire to police stations across the country. Several police personnel were killed, while weapons and ammunition were looted from stations. Many members of the force went into hiding to protect their lives.
After the interim government took charge, efforts were made to restore police morale and recover stolen weapons. However, incidents of mob justice, attacks on law enforcement personnel and obstacles during arrests have continued.
Even now, police face attacks while carrying out arrests. There have also been allegations of suspects being forcibly taken away from police custody, creating further challenges for maintaining law and order.
AIG (Media) of Police Headquarters Shahadat Hossain said that the tendency to follow the law among citizens needs to increase. He said police believe in using minimum force and will continue taking action according to the law without excessive use of power.
Meanwhile, analysts believe that the police force has not yet fully recovered its chain of command, making law enforcement difficult.
Dhaka University teacher Dr. Towhidul Haque said fundamental reforms within the police force are necessary to bring lasting change. He emphasized ensuring merit-based appointments and promotions instead of political influence, while also strengthening internal unity within the force.
EWND/SMA/AJ
