Improving the Law and Order Situation in Bangladesh

Home Affairs Adviser Lt Gen Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury (retd) . Photo collected

The law and order situation in Bangladesh has reached a critical juncture, with the recent demands from Dhaka University students for the resignation of Home Affairs Adviser Lt. Gen. Jahangir Alam Chowdhury. The students cite a rising spate of crimes as the primary reason for their call, while the adviser insists that the situation has improved since the August 5, 2024, changeover. 

The backdrop to this crisis is the demoralization of the police force and subsequent desertion of police stations across the country. Following the mass uprising that led to the ousting of the previous government, the police force, which had been used to crush the movement of students and masses, found itself in disarray. The demoralized police vacated 470 stations, leaving a security vacuum that was quickly exploited by criminal elements. Gang robberies were attempted at various places, and citizens had to form groups to guard their own homes.

The Interim Government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, faced the monumental task of restoring the police administration. Many top officials fled after the mass upsurge, further complicating the situation. It took time and significant effort to reestablish a functioning police force, with the government promising to address the demands of the police and restore order.

Lt. Gen. Jahangir Alam Chowdhury (retd) has assured the public that patrol activities by law enforcers will be increased to guard against robberies and thefts. He has emphasized that the situation has improved since he took charge, pointing to the active role of the police, Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), and Ansar in maintaining law and order. However, the students and many citizens remain unconvinced, citing ongoing incidents of crime and a perceived lack of effective action. Even on Monday incidents of crimes have been reported in capital Dhaka as well as the rest of Bangladesh.

The establishment of a command center to monitor and control crimes is a step in the right direction, but it must be taken to task to ensure its effectiveness. The Adviser must demonstrate tangible results in reducing crime rates and restoring public confidence in the law enforcement agencies. The government must also address the root causes of crime to create a safer and more secure environment for all citizens.

While the Interim Government and the Home Affairs Adviser have made efforts to restore order, much work remains to be done. The demands of the Dhaka University students reflect a broader sentiment of frustration and a desire for accountability. It is imperative that the government takes decisive action to address these concerns and ensure the safety and security of all citizens.