The New Nation - Internet Edition

BSS, Dhaka

Chairman of Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) Prof Muzaffer Ahmed on Friday underlined the importance of introducing 'police ombudsman' to build an efficient and honest police force.

"Establishment of police ombudsman is necessary for building an efficient, accountable, transparent and honest police force side by side with reforms of police law," he told a roundtable at Jatiya Press Club here.

The roundtable on "Coordination of Police, mass media and human rights organisations" was organised by Samajik Paribesh O Manabadhikar Bastabayan Sangstha. Chairman of the organisation HM Ibrahim presided.

Renowned lawyer Barrister Amir-ul-Islam, former inspector general of police Ashraful Huda, executive director of Bangladesh Manabadhikar Bastabayan Sangstha, Advocate Elena Khan also spoke on the occasion.

The TIB chairman also stressed the need for coordination among the police, mass media and human rights organisations for establishing meaningful democracy and good governance in the country.

"Mass media has to present accurate and objective reports as conscience of the nation," Prof Muzaffer said. He said human rights organisations should play a responsible role in protecting human rights of people.

He contended that only increase in salary and other benefits would not help establish a corruption-free police administration. Moral values are important in this regard, he added.

Barrister Amir-ul-Islam said coordination of police force, mass media and human rights organisations are essential to establish true democracy in the country.

He also emphasised the need for institutional reforms and amendment of police law for an efficient police administration.