Police reform: 82.5pc people for change in arrest practices

NN Online:

The Police Reform Commission (PRC) has proposed changes to the current practice of arresting individuals without a warrant under Section 54 of the CrPC 1889. This recommendation follows a survey in which 82.5 per cent of 24,442 respondents deemed Section 54 to be abusive.

PRC conducted the survey on “Kemon Police Chai” (what kind of police we want) as part of the government’s initiative to make police more public friendly where 46.2 per cent people of total 21,637 respondents opined that the Section 54 of the CrPC should be reformed and made modern.

In order to prevent the abuse of power and preserving the values of a democratic society, 39.7 per cent respondents suggested that Section 54 should be amended as per the recommendation of the High Court.

The PRC released the findings of its survey on December 3 last and agreed with the public opinion saying it is very crucial to take into account the opinions and suggestions of the people.

Fourteen point one (14.1) per cent respondents have opined that it is important to implement the directives of the High Court given at different times to prevent mistreatment of this section.

The public survey was carried out in the wake of recent criticism at home and abroad about the exercising aggressive power by some police personnel during the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement.

The interim government formed the “Police Reform Commission” to reform the police force.

About sixty (60) per cent respondent suggested formation of a commission to investigate the allegations of human rights violation and abuse of power by police.

Twenty (20) per cent people suggested formation of a permanent commission led by a retired High Court judge to investigate the abuse of power by law enforcers.

Some 89.5 per cent people opined that using police force for political purposes must be stopped and 77.9 per cent want police not to indulge in corruption.

Some 75 per cent respondents demanded that police must be brought under accountability for violations of human rights, forced disappearance and extrajudicial killings.

The country needs a law-abiding, corruption and political influence free independent police to maintain law and order.

The survey report is now available on the Police Reform Commission website (www.prc.mhapsd.gov.bd)