Reforming police in Bangladesh: A herculean task

The Police Reforms Commission has presented an extensive set of recommendations to the Interim Government, highlighting the need for significant efforts to reform Bangladesh's police force and restore public confidence. The 101-page report, led by bureaucrat Safar Raj Hossain and supported by former and current police officials, human rights activists, and other stakeholders, outlines 103 recommendations under 15 major areas.

The commission proposed forming a dedicated investigation unit within the police force to specialize in handling criminal cases. This unit would streamline investigations, preventing the current overlap of responsibilities within police stations. Although unofficial divisions between investigative and operational police personnel already exist, this formalized approach aims to enhance efficiency.

Another major suggestion is the establishment of a Police Commission to ensure impartiality and accountability within the force. This body, though not constitutionally defined, would oversee police operations and maintain neutrality.

The report emphasizes reviewing outdated laws such as the Police Act 1861, CrPC 1898, and PRB 1943, advocating for modernized, people-oriented policing. To ensure public oversight, the commission recommended forming a task force with representatives from the general populace.

To modernize police operations, the report calls for technology-driven reforms, including creating a core tech team to address cybercrimes and establishing facilities like digital forensics labs, automated DNA labs, and ballistic units in each division.

It also suggests expanding the workforce, particularly female officers, in units focusing on women's safety, proposing an increase from 16,801 to 29,248 female personnel. Establishing a Centre for Police Research and Development (CPRD) is recommended to focus on ongoing improvements in policing strategies.

The report further advocates for creating a coroner’s office in every metropolitan area and establishing a national Forensic Training Institute (AFIT) to build expertise in crime scene analysis and evidence handling.

Crowd management during mass uprisings was a primary focus. Learning from global best practices, the commission recommended adopting Kosovo’s model for handling large gatherings, a method endorsed by Bangladeshi police officers who served in UN peacekeeping missions.

To enhance accountability, the commission proposed identifying police personnel involved in excessive force during uprisings and distinguishing deaths caused by personal disputes from those occurring during public unrest.

The recommendations, while comprehensive, face significant hurdles in implementation. According to a superintendent of police, many proposals align with current practices but remain underutilized or mismanaged. Political commitment is vital to overcoming these obstacles.

Former Additional IGP Nazmul Haque emphasized the need for "smart policing" to address Bangladesh’s dense population and complex challenges. He expressed skepticism about the feasibility of reforms without political consensus and expert involvement in creating the proposed institutions and units.

Safar Raj Hossain, the commission’s head, stated that the recommendations are categorized based on implementation timelines. Some could be enacted by the interim government, while others require the commitment of an elected government. He stressed that strong political will is the key to successful reform.

The commission's effort reflects a desire to align Bangladesh's police force with global best practices, fostering transparency, accountability, and public trust. However, achieving these goals requires a unified political effort, expert resources, and a long-term commitment to change.