The challenges facing the Bangladesh Police are deeply rooted in a complex history of political manipulation, institutional inefficiency, and systemic abuse. As the interim government takes the helm in the aftermath of the recent student-led uprising—a movement that tragically resulted in over 300 deaths and thousands of injuries—there is an urgent need to confront these issues head-on. The events leading up to the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s government have cast a stark light on the entrenched problems within the police force, making it clear that only comprehensive, far-reaching reforms can restore public trust and rebuild a force that truly serves the people.
The Legacy of Politicization
One cannot discuss the challenges facing the Bangladesh Police without addressing the long-standing issue of politicization. This problem is not a recent development; rather, it has been a persistent feature of the nation’s law enforcement landscape for decades. Since Bangladesh's independence, successive governments have wielded the police as a tool for political gain, using them to suppress opposition and maintain their grip on power. The roots of this issue can be traced back to the colonial era, when the police force was designed primarily as an instrument of control rather than public service. This legacy has left an indelible mark on the institution, shaping it into a force more aligned with political interests than the protection of citizens' rights.
ASM Shahjahan, a prominent figure in Bangladesh’s law enforcement history, highlighted these issues as early as 2010. He warned that the politicization of the police was leading to a dangerous nexus between politicians, police, and criminals—a relationship that would inevitably damage the public image of the police and erode their legitimacy as enforcers of the law. His words were prophetic, as the years that followed saw an increasing reliance on the police to serve the ruling party’s agenda, particularly during the three consecutive terms of Sheikh Hasina's government.
Sheikh Hasina’s tenure saw the Bangladesh Police force become deeply entwined with the ruling party’s agenda. This politicization was not merely a gradual encroachment but a systematic transformation that eroded the very foundations of the force’s impartiality.
The police, instead of serving the public and upholding justice, were often deployed to silence opposition, manipulate elections, and maintain the status quo. This shift was evident in the way the police handled political protests, particularly those led by the opposition or civil society.
Reports of police brutality, unlawful arrests, and the use of force to disperse peaceful gatherings became alarmingly common.
The consequences of this politicization were far-reaching. The police’s involvement in political repression led to a significant erosion of public trust. Citizens, who once viewed the police as protectors, began to see them as agents of the ruling party, capable of great violence and injustice. This perception was not unfounded. Numerous reports documented instances of police officers being involved in extrajudicial killings, often under the guise of “crossfire” incidents. These killings, which were carried out without any legal process, became a tool for eliminating political opponents and instilling fear among the populace.
Corruption within the police force also flourished under Sheikh Hasina’s government. The influence of money and political connections became the primary criteria for recruitment, promotion, and postings within the force.
It was reported that more than half of the field-level police members were appointed during Hasina’s tenure, with many of these appointments being based on political loyalty rather than merit.
This culture of corruption permeated every level of the police force, leading to widespread abuses of power. Officers were frequently involved in bribery, extortion, and other illegal activities, often with the tacit approval of their superiors.
Challenges Faced by the Police
Institutional Weaknesses: An Outdated Framework
The Bangladesh Police operate within a framework that is both outdated and inadequate for the challenges of modern law enforcement. The Police Act of 1861, a relic of colonial rule, remains the foundation of the police system, and its influence continues to hinder the development of a force that is efficient, accountable, and capable of upholding democratic principles.
The act was designed to maintain order through coercion, reflecting the priorities of colonial rulers rather than the needs of a free and democratic society. This has resulted in a hierarchical, top-heavy structure that stifles innovation and responsiveness, leaving the police ill-equipped to address the complex issues they face today.
The disconnect between senior officers and the rank-and-file is one of the most significant institutional weaknesses within the police force.
Decision-making is often centralized at the top, leading to delays and a lack of accountability at the lower levels.
This top-heavy structure also means that the concerns and challenges faced by those on the front lines are often overlooked or ignored, further exacerbating the inefficiency of the force. The consequences of this are severe, as it not only hampers the effectiveness of the police but also contributes to the erosion of morale among officers who feel undervalued and unsupported.
Resource Constraints and the Strain on Policing
Compounding these institutional weaknesses are significant resource constraints that limit the effectiveness of the Bangladesh Police. The force is often underfunded, leading to chronic shortages of essential equipment, vehicles, and technology. This lack of resources severely hampers the ability of the police to conduct thorough investigations, particularly in areas that require modern forensic facilities and advanced surveillance tools. The impact of these shortages is felt across the board, from the handling of everyday crimes to more complex cases involving terrorism and organized crime.
The shortage of personnel is another critical issue, with the police force often stretched thin by the demands placed upon them. Overwork and fatigue are common among officers, leading to decreased performance and an increased likelihood of mistakes. These conditions not only undermine the ability of the police to effectively maintain law and order but also contribute to the deterioration of morale within the force. The sense of being overburdened and under-resourced creates a fertile ground for corruption and abuse, as officers may seek alternative means to supplement their income or cope with the pressures of the job.
Crime Statistics and Regional Disparities
An analysis of crime statistics in Bangladesh reveals a complex and evolving landscape, shaped by a range of socio-economic factors and regional disparities. Bangladesh, with a population of over 171 million people, is one of the most densely populated countries in the world. This high population density, combined with rapid urbanization and significant economic disparities, has contributed to a varied crime landscape that presents unique challenges for law enforcement.
Dhaka, the capital and most populous city, consistently records the highest crime rates in the country. In 2022 alone, Dhaka reported nearly 29,000 cases of various crimes, marking a 15% increase from the previous year.
This rise in crime can be attributed to several factors, including the rapid urbanization of the city, growing income inequality, and the concentration of economic activities that attract criminal elements. The high crime rate in Dhaka is particularly concerning, as it reflects the broader challenges of maintaining law and order in a city that is both the political and economic heart of the nation.
Chattogram, Bangladesh's second-largest city and a major port, also faces significant crime challenges, particularly related to drug trafficking. The city's strategic location makes it a prime target for smugglers, contributing to a steady increase in drug-related offenses. Meanwhile, regions like Rajshahi and Khulna, which have lower population densities and slower rates of urbanization, report comparatively lower crime rates. However, these regions are not immune to the rising tide of drug-related crimes, highlighting the pervasive nature of this issue across the country.
The socio-economic factors driving crime in Bangladesh are well-documented. Poverty, unemployment, and illiteracy are significant contributors, particularly among the youth, who are often drawn into criminal activities out of desperation or lack of opportunity. The relationship between these socio-economic factors and crime is complex, but the correlation is clear: regions with higher levels of poverty and unemployment tend to have higher crime rates, while those with better access to education and economic opportunities fare better in terms of public safety.
Systemic Abuse and Human Rights Violations
The issue of human rights violations by the Bangladesh police is a deeply troubling aspect of the force's operations, one that has long undermined its legitimacy and public trust. The systemic abuse within the police force, including cases of custodial torture, extrajudicial killings, and enforced disappearances, has been well-documented by both domestic and international human rights organizations. These practices are not just isolated incidents but are indicative of a broader culture of impunity that has taken root within the force.
The human rights violations committed by the Bangladesh Police under Sheikh Hasina’s government are a dark chapter in the nation’s history. The use of extrajudicial killings, often justified as necessary measures to maintain law and order, became a hallmark of the police’s approach to dealing with dissent. These killings, which were carried out with little regard for due process or the rule of law, were not isolated incidents. Instead, they were part of a broader strategy to instill fear and suppress opposition.
The scale of these violations is staggering. Reports from human rights organizations indicate that hundreds, if not thousands, of individuals were killed in so-called “crossfire” incidents during Hasina’s tenure. These incidents were often carried out in the dead of night, with the victims’ bodies being discovered in remote areas, bearing signs of torture. The police, when confronted with these allegations, would typically claim that the deaths occurred during shootouts with criminals. However, eyewitness accounts and forensic evidence often contradicted these claims, revealing a pattern of systematic execution.
The impact of these human rights violations on public trust in the police cannot be overstated. For many citizens, the police ceased to be seen as protectors of the law and instead became symbols of state-sponsored terror. The fear of arbitrary arrest, torture, or even death became a daily reality for those who were perceived as enemies of the state. This climate of fear eroded the very fabric of civil society, stifling dissent and discouraging citizens from speaking out against injustice.
The erosion of public trust in the police was further exacerbated by the widespread use of torture in custody. Detainees, particularly those accused of political crimes, were often subjected to brutal treatment in an attempt to extract confessions or information. The use of torture was not only a violation of the victims’ human rights but also a clear breach of Bangladesh’s obligations under international law. Despite the outcry from human rights groups, the practice continued unabated, with little accountability for those responsible.
The Himal article provides a stark account of the extent of this abuse, highlighting how the police have often prioritized maintaining order through coercion and violence over protecting individual rights. This approach is a direct legacy of the colonial era, where the police were designed as instruments of control rather than public service. The persistence of this mentality in modern Bangladesh has had devastating consequences, not only for the victims of these abuses but also for the credibility of the police as an institution.
One of the key factors contributing to these human rights violations is the broad discretionary powers granted to the police under the legal framework governing their operations. The Police Act of 1861, along with provisions in the Code of Criminal Procedure (CPC), grants the police significant authority, including the power to arrest individuals without a warrant on mere suspicion of involvement in a crime. These powers have been widely abused, particularly in the context of political repression, where the police have been used to silence dissent and target opposition figures.
The lack of accountability within the police force exacerbates the problem, as officers who engage in misconduct are rarely held to account. Internal investigations are often cursory, and when they do occur, they frequently result in minimal or no consequences for the officers involved. This culture of impunity allows human rights violations to continue unchecked, eroding public trust in the police and undermining the rule of law.
Public Perception and the Erosion of Trust
The public perception of the Bangladesh police is overwhelmingly negative, a reflection of the deep-seated issues that have plagued the force for decades. Corruption, abuse of power, and inefficiency are just some of the factors that have contributed to the erosion of trust between the police and the communities they are meant to serve. This lack of trust is a significant barrier to effective policing, as it discourages citizens from cooperating with law enforcement and undermines the ability of the police to maintain public safety.
A report provides a comprehensive analysis of the factors that have led to this widespread distrust. Historical factors, such as the colonial legacy of the police as an instrument of control, have played a significant role in shaping public perceptions. However, more recent issues, such as the rampant corruption within the force and the frequent abuse of power, have only reinforced these negative views.
Corruption within the police force is particularly damaging to public trust. Reports of bribery, extortion, and the fabrication of charges are common, and the lack of accountability means that these practices often go unpunished.
This creates a perception that the police are more interested in their own financial gain than in serving the public, further alienating the communities they are supposed to protect.
The inefficiency and incompetence of the police also contribute to the erosion of trust. The force's inability to effectively prevent and investigate crimes, coupled with a lack of confidence in the judicial system, leaves the public feeling vulnerable and unprotected. This is particularly true in cases involving vulnerable populations, such as women and children, who often find themselves at the mercy of a justice system that is both slow and unreliable.
The role of the media in shaping public perceptions of the police cannot be underestimated. Negative media coverage of police misconduct and corruption, often amplified by social media, has played a significant role in deepening the public's mistrust. While media coverage is essential for holding the police accountable, it also contributes to the perception that the police are not to be trusted, further complicating efforts to rebuild public confidence.
The Breakdown of the Chain of Command
The breakdown of the “chain of command” within the Bangladesh Police following the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s government is indicative of the deep-seated issues within the force. For three days, police activities came to a standstill, as officers grappled with the uncertainty of the new political landscape. This paralysis highlighted the extent to which the police had become dependent on the political leadership of the ruling party. Without clear directives from the top, many officers were unsure of how to proceed, leading to a complete halt in operations.
The interim government’s newly appointed inspector general of police, Md. Mainul Islam, acknowledged the gravity of the situation. In his first public statement after assuming office, he admitted that “incidents of human rights violation have taken place due to unprofessionalism and high ambition of some of our officials and flouting principles in using force.”
His words reflect the deep mistrust and insecurity that had taken root within the police force, particularly among the lower ranks. Constables and sub-inspectors, who had borne the brunt of the public’s anger during the protests, were now questioning the orders they had followed and the leadership they had trusted.
The breakdown of the chain of command also exposed the disconnect between the police leadership and the rank-and-file officers. For years, the top brass had been insulated from the consequences of their decisions, while lower-ranking officers were left to carry out orders that often put them in harm’s way. This disconnect was exacerbated by the culture of impunity that prevailed within the force, where senior officers were rarely held accountable for the actions of their subordinates. The result was a police force that was deeply divided, with little trust between the different ranks.
In this context, the demands for reform from within the police force take on a new urgency. The rank-and-file officers, particularly those at the lower levels, have made it clear that they can no longer be expected to carry out orders that compromise their safety and integrity. They have called for a comprehensive review of the force’s operations, with a focus on restoring professionalism and accountability. This includes addressing the systemic issues that have led to the breakdown of the chain of command, such as the politicization of promotions and the lack of transparency in decision-making.
The interim government has recognized the need for immediate action to restore morale within the police force. This includes ensuring the safety and security of police officers as they return to their posts, as well as addressing the grievances of those who feel they have been unfairly treated. The new inspector general has pledged to listen to the concerns of the rank-and-file and to take steps to rebuild trust within the force. However, these efforts will need to be sustained and supported by broader structural reforms if they are to have a lasting impact.
The Path to Reform
Accountability and Transparency
The path to reforming the Bangladesh Police must begin with a commitment to accountability and transparency. These principles are the foundation of any democratic institution, and their absence has been at the heart of the police force’s problems. The interim government has a unique opportunity to set a new standard for law enforcement in Bangladesh, one that prioritizes the rights of citizens and holds officers to the highest standards of conduct.
One of the most pressing issues is the need for independent oversight of the police. For too long, the police have operated with little external scrutiny, allowing abuses of power to go unchecked.
The establishment of an independent police commission, as suggested by members of the force, would be a significant step towards ensuring that the police are held accountable for their actions. This commission would have the authority to investigate allegations of misconduct, including human rights violations, and to impose sanctions on those found guilty.
The commission would also play a crucial role in overseeing the recruitment, promotion, and posting of police officers. By removing these processes from the influence of political actors, the commission would help to ensure that the police force is composed of individuals who are selected based on merit and integrity. This would go a long way towards addressing the culture of corruption that has taken root within the force and restoring public confidence in the police.
In addition to independent oversight, there is a need for greater transparency in the operations of the police. This includes making information about police activities, policies, and procedures readily available to the public. Transparency is essential for building trust between the police and the communities they serve, as it allows citizens to hold the police accountable and to ensure that their rights are being respected. The interim government must prioritize the implementation of measures that promote transparency, such as the publication of crime statistics, the establishment of clear guidelines for the use of force, and the creation of mechanisms for citizens to report police misconduct.
Reforming the Legal Framework
The legal framework governing the Bangladesh Police is another area that requires urgent reform. The Police Act of 1861, which still forms the basis of police operations, is a relic of the colonial era and is ill-suited to the needs of a modern, democratic society. The Act was designed to maintain order through coercion, rather than to protect the rights of citizens. As such, it has contributed to the culture of impunity and abuse that has characterized the police force in recent years.
Reforming the legal framework is essential for bringing the police into line with international human rights standards. This includes revising provisions within the Code of Criminal Procedure (CPC) that grant the police broad discretionary powers, such as the ability to arrest individuals without a warrant on mere suspicion of involvement in a crime.
These powers have been widely abused, leading to arbitrary arrests and detentions, particularly of political opponents and activists. By narrowing the scope of these powers and introducing safeguards against their misuse, the government can help to prevent future abuses and ensure that the police operate within the bounds of the law.
In addition to revising the CPC, there is a need to develop new legislation that reflects the principles of democratic policing. This includes laws that promote community policing, protect the rights of suspects and detainees, and ensure that the use of force by the police is proportionate and justified. The new legal framework should also include provisions for regular training and education of police officers on human rights and ethical conduct. This will help to instill a culture of professionalism within the force and ensure that officers are equipped to perform their duties in a manner that respects the rights of all citizens.
Addressing Corruption and Political Interference
Corruption and political interference have been among the most significant challenges facing the Bangladesh Police. These issues have not only undermined the effectiveness of the police but have also contributed to the erosion of public trust. Addressing these challenges is essential for any meaningful reform of the police force.
One of the key steps in tackling corruption within the police is to improve the working conditions and compensation of police officers. Low salaries and poor working conditions have driven many officers to engage in corrupt practices as a means of supplementing their income.
By increasing salaries and providing adequate resources for police work, the government can reduce the incentive for corruption and improve the overall professionalism of the force.
In addition to improving compensation, there is a need to establish strict internal accountability mechanisms to combat corruption. This includes the creation of internal affairs units that are empowered to investigate allegations of corruption and to take disciplinary action against officers who are found to be involved in corrupt activities. These units should operate independently of the police hierarchy to ensure that investigations are conducted impartially and without interference from senior officers.
Reducing political interference in the police force is also crucial for restoring its independence and impartiality. The interim government must take steps to ensure that the police are no longer used as a tool of political control.
This includes removing political appointees from key positions within the police force and ensuring that promotions and postings are based on merit rather than political loyalty. By depoliticizing the police, the government can help to restore public confidence in the force and ensure that it operates in the best interests of the nation as a whole.
Improving Training and Education
Training and education are critical components of any effort to reform the Bangladesh Police. The current training programs for police officers are outdated and fail to adequately address the challenges of modern policing. Many officers lack the necessary skills and knowledge to handle complex cases, particularly those involving human rights, cybercrime, and terrorism. Improving training and education is essential for equipping officers with the tools they need to perform their duties effectively and ethically.
One of the key areas that require attention is the training of police officers in human rights and ethical conduct. The use of torture, extrajudicial killings, and other human rights violations by the police has been a significant problem in Bangladesh.
To address this, the government must ensure that all police officers receive comprehensive training on human rights and the legal and ethical boundaries of their powers. This training should be reinforced through regular refresher courses and monitored to ensure that it is being implemented effectively.
In addition to human rights training, there is a need to modernize the overall curriculum for police training. This includes incorporating training on community policing, conflict resolution, and the use of technology in law enforcement. By providing officers with a broader skill set, the government can help to create a more professional and effective police force that is better equipped to meet the challenges of the 21st century.
The government should also consider establishing partnerships with international organizations and other countries to enhance the training and education of police officers. These partnerships can provide access to best practices in policing and help to raise the standards of the Bangladesh Police to international levels. By investing in the training and education of its police officers, the government can help to create a force that is not only capable of maintaining law and order but also committed to upholding the rights of all citizens.
Rebuilding Public Trust through Community Policing
Rebuilding public trust in the Bangladesh Police is essential for the success of any reform efforts. One of the most effective ways to achieve this is through the implementation of community policing initiatives. Community policing is a philosophy that promotes collaboration between the police and the communities they serve. It is based on the idea that the police and the public should work together to identify and solve problems related to crime and disorder.
Community policing has been shown to be effective in improving public trust and reducing crime in many countries around the world. By involving the community in policing efforts, the police can gain valuable insights into the needs and concerns of the public and build stronger relationships with the communities they serve.
This approach also helps to create a sense of shared responsibility for public safety, with the police and the community working together to create a safer environment for everyone.
The interim government has already taken steps to promote community policing by instructing metropolitan police commissioners and superintendents of police to form “civil safety committees” composed of senior citizens, professionals, student representatives, political and media persons. These committees will play a crucial role in facilitating communication between the police and the public and ensuring that the concerns of the community are taken into account in policing decisions.
However, the success of community policing will depend on the willingness of the police to engage with the public in a meaningful way. This will require a shift in the culture of the police force, with officers being encouraged to view the public as partners rather than adversaries. The government must also ensure that community policing initiatives are properly resourced and supported, with officers receiving the training and guidance they need to implement these initiatives effectively.
Addressing the Root Causes of Crime
While reforming the police is essential for improving law enforcement in Bangladesh, it is also important to address the root causes of crime. Poverty, unemployment, illiteracy, and social inequality are significant factors that contribute to crime in Bangladesh. By addressing these underlying issues, the government can help to create a safer and more just society.
Poverty and unemployment are among the most significant drivers of crime in Bangladesh. The lack of economic opportunities forces many individuals, particularly young people, to turn to crime as a means of survival. The government must prioritize economic development and job creation, particularly in rural areas, to reduce the economic disparities that drive crime. This includes investing in education and skills training to ensure that individuals have the tools they need to access meaningful employment.
Illiteracy is another significant factor contributing to crime in Bangladesh. Although the literacy rate has improved over the years, a large portion of the population remains illiterate. Illiteracy limits individuals’ access to opportunities and increases their vulnerability to criminal exploitation. The government must continue to invest in education and ensure that all citizens have access to quality education, regardless of their socio-economic background.
Social inequality is also a significant factor contributing to crime in Bangladesh. Marginalized communities, including women, ethnic minorities, and the poor, are often disproportionately affected by crime and violence.
The government must take steps to address social inequality and ensure that all citizens have access to justice and protection. This includes promoting gender equality, protecting the rights of minorities, and ensuring that the criminal justice system is accessible to all.
The Way Forward
The resignation of Sheikh Hasina and the fall of her government have opened a new chapter in the history of Bangladesh. The challenges facing the country are immense, but they also present an opportunity for meaningful change. Reforming the Bangladesh Police is one of the most pressing tasks facing the new interim government. The force must be transformed from a tool of political repression into a professional, accountable, and impartial institution that upholds the rule of law and respects the rights of all citizens.
The path to reform will not be easy. It will require a comprehensive and coordinated effort to address the systemic issues that have plagued the police for decades. This includes implementing independent oversight, reforming the legal framework, addressing corruption and political interference, improving training and education, and rebuilding public trust through community policing. It also requires addressing the root causes of crime, such as poverty, unemployment, and social inequality.
The interim government has a unique opportunity to lay the foundation for a new era of law enforcement in Bangladesh. By taking bold and decisive action, it can help to restore the integrity of the police force and ensure that it serves the people, rather than the powerful. This is not just a matter of policy; it is a matter of justice. The people of Bangladesh deserve a police force that protects their rights, upholds the rule of law, and works to create a safer and more just society. The time for reform is now, and the opportunity must not be missed.
