The New Nation - Internet Edition

MISUSE of police’s authority declined somewhat after the declaration of emergency and the resolve of the government to improve police’s functioning. But the earlier enthusiasm to reform the stables of the law enforcers is lagging perhaps. For even under this emergency, police officials are being nabbed for immorality and corruption. The latest in the depravation and total lack of morality noted in policemen, involved a police officer of not petty but high rank. He was the Assistant Commissioner of the Chittagong Metropolitan Police (CMP) who was caught red-handed for robbing a household with his subordinate policemen.

Many policemen have been taken off active duty in the last one year on such grounds. But the above incidents only point to the hard realities that till very comprehensive reforms are carried out, the police will lag behind in aiding good governance. It is imperative for the government to engage in reform of the police force. Otherwise, prospects of good governance will continue to be an elusive chase after the transition to an elected government. The greatest stress in any police reforms must be put on freeing this force of corrupt elements.

It might sound like too drastic a proposition but there is possibly no alternative to terminating the services of a large number of policemen. They may be given the option of retiring voluntarily. The aim should be to largely raise a new police force over a period of time. Apparently, the task may appear daunting. But once taken up, it will not prove difficult. Completion of training for police duties at the Sardah Police Training Academy takes about a year for both policemen and officers. So, if the government takes up a plan and goes to work immediately, then it should be possible to raise a large number of policemen and officers and make sure that they pass through an improved training course.