Staff Reporter :
In an effort to combat widespread extortion, a task force under the interim government has proposed the creation of an independent “Anti-Goon Squad” to address issues affecting various sectors of society.
A major challenge faced by citizens in accessing public services-such as purchasing train tickets or obtaining passports-is the pervasive practice of extortion.
This issue extends beyond public services to markets, transport networks, and construction sites, according to the task force’s report.
To tackle this issue, the task force has strongly recommended the establishment of an independent “Anti-Goon Squad.”
The report suggests that this specialised unit could operate within the public sector or be outsourced to private security firms, provided strict safeguards are in place to prevent abuse.
“Ensuring oversight by youth and citizen groups is essential to maintaining the squad’s effectiveness. Continuous refinements in its operational procedures will also be necessary to adapt to emerging challenges,” the report states.
The task force additionally emphasises the strategic importance of integrating digital and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies across key sectors such as education, healthcare, agriculture, and public institutions.
For example, satellite-based sensing could enable early-warning systems to enhance agricultural productivity, while distance learning could ensure uninterrupted education despite geographical barriers.
“By leveraging these advanced technologies, we can improve efficiency, quality, and accessibility across multiple sectors, ultimately benefiting the entire population,” the report highlights.
To bridge the digital divide, the task force calls for a comprehensive approach to utilising digital and AI technologies effectively.
This includes reducing data costs, expanding access to affordable smartphones with appropriate safeguards for age-sensitive content, and fostering a robust domestic ICT industry in both software and hardware.
“Enhancing digital accessibility will empower citizens, improve digital literacy, and drive innovation within the ICT sector,” the report notes.
Bangladesh’s planning process has long suffered from inefficiencies and a lack of policy coherence, underscoring the need for urgent reforms.
According to the task force, significant improvements in governance practices, monitoring and evaluation (M&E) frameworks, and policymaking processes are necessary to ensure more effective development strategies.
Strengthening project implementation mechanisms and improving inter-departmental coordination are also crucial to achieving development goals efficiently.
The report recommends appointing qualified technocrats to leadership roles in technical departments, divisions, and institutes, rather than relying on generalists who may lack the necessary expertise.
Moving away from outdated appointment practices, it asserts, would improve project outcomes, enhance service delivery, and ensure greater accountability within public institutions.
Education and Planning Adviser Professor Wahiduddin Mahmud recently submitted the task force’s report, titled “Re-strategising the Economy and Mobilising Resources for Equitable and Sustainable Development,” to Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus.
The 12-member task force, formed on 10 September, was tasked with redefining development strategies, identifying financial system leakages, and restoring discipline in project implementation.
