Our newspaper on Tuesday reported that the country is facing a surge in crime, with drug trafficking, extortion, robbery, murder, and rape on the rise, particularly in Dhaka.
The recent data from Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP), showing an alarming increase in crime compared to the previous year, paints an alarming picture of the deteriorating law and order situation.
The real concern, however, lies in the deeper issues contributing to this spike — chief among them is a weak legal framework, the lack of separation of powers, and the politicization of key institutions.
It is indeed when institutions such as the Election Commission, National Human Rights Commission, and the Information Commission — designed to safeguard public safety — become politicised and unable to act independently, crime proliferates.
The police, manipulated by political influences, often enforce laws selectively, undermining public trust and the effectiveness of the justice system.
However, Bangladesh’s reliance on outdated colonial-era laws, such as the Evidence Act, is a significant hindrance to justice.
Immediate legislative reforms are needed to modernise the legal framework, providing law enforcement agencies with the tools and technology necessary for collecting and presenting evidence effectively.
This would reduce the number of false cases filed and expedite the judicial process.
Besides, Political parties must recognise the detrimental effects of using the police for their own agendas.
A transparent recruitment and oversight system for law enforcement personnel, free from political interference, is crucial for restoring public confidence in the justice system.
On the other hand, Institutions like the Election Commission, Human Rights Commission, and Information Commission must function independently to uphold constitutional rights and maintain public safety.
Adequate checks and balances must be put in place to ensure their impartiality and effectiveness.
We think addressing rising crime requires collaboration between the government and civil society. Public awareness campaigns and community-based initiatives can play a vital role in crime prevention.
Citizens should be educated about their rights, and grassroots movements must be supported to help bridge the gap between law enforcement and the public.
The rise in crime poses a serious threat to the stability of Bangladesh. Both short-term fixes, such as improving evidence collection and stricter laws on false cases, and long-term solutions like comprehensive institutional reforms are critical.
The government, law enforcement agencies, and the public must work together to create a just, secure society where the rule of law prevails.