DHAKA, Apr 28(V7N)- Inspector General of Police (IGP) Baharul Alam stated today that the country's police force is still awaiting the formation of an independent commission to oversee its regulation.

"Police is still waiting for the 'Separate Police Commission' which was our main suggestion. We hope the commission will be formed," he told a press conference held at the Foreign Service Academy.

IGP Alam mentioned that the police have conveyed their desire to the interim government, emphasizing their need to operate independently and free from external pressures. "We hope that it (our demand) will be addressed," he added.

The police chief noted that police reform became a prominent issue following August 5, 2024, with discussions occurring at various levels of the government, particularly concerning the alleged indiscriminate use of police force.

He recalled that the government had previously established a police reform commission. However, he observed that while other reform issues have remained prominent, the matter of police reform appears to have been sidelined recently.

Responding to inquiries about the current status of the proposed police reforms and the force's proposals, IGP Alam stated that they were initially very optimistic following the formation of the Police Reform Commission.

"We hoped they will give some important suggestions for the police. We have also given some suggestions on behalf of the police," he said.

He further elaborated that, in addition to suggesting the establishment of a commission, the police have also sought a degree of autonomy in their operations to shield them from undue influence.

Chief Adviser’s press secretary Shafiqul Alam, deputy press secretary Abul Kalam Azad Majumder, assistant inspector general (AIG) of media at Police Headquarters Enamul Haque Sagor, and public relations officer of the police AKM Kamrul Ahsan were present at the press conference.

END/MSS/RH/