Independent police commission a must
At a recent roundtable on police reforms organised by Prothom Alo, all participants agreed that independence of the police force is crucial for ensuring professionalism, accountability, and public confidence in the force. The speakers, including policymakers, senior police officials, rights activists, academics, and political leaders, unequivocally stressed that meaningful transformation will be possible if the scope for undue political and bureaucratic control is eliminated. From the discussion, one thing is clear: only an independent police commission with real and accountable authority can ensure a sustainable reform.
For decades, our police force has been frequently plagued by impunity, politicisation, and public mistrust. During the 15 years of Awami League rule, the force became an instrument of political oppression, severely eroding its credibility. The fragile relationship between the police and the citizens was starkly exposed during the July uprising. After the fall of the regime, the interim government formed a Police Reform Commission that submitted a report in January this year, outlining extensive measures to restore integrity and accountability in the force. Among them, the commission proposed the creation of an independent police commission. It recommended that use of force against civilians be a last resort—always precise, proportional, and appropriate—following the self-defence-only rules applied to UN peacekeepers, which Bangladeshi police already follow abroad. It also urged the government to prevent custodial torture, extortion, arbitrary arrests, and enforced disappearances.
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In early September, the interim government directed the law ministry to draft laws to establish two separate commissions within the police to ensure accountability and enable internal investigations free from external interference. It is encouraging to learn that the amended Code of Criminal Procedure includes key provisions to strengthen accountability in arrest and remand procedures. However, true reform will remain beyond reach if the home ministry retains control over postings, promotions, and enforcement of the commission's recommendations. Bureaucratic interference has long undermined professionalism in the force, which must end.
Experts also believe that an independent commission could free the police from decades of manipulation and abuse. It would ensure that recruitment and promotions are based on merit, investigations are guided by evidence rather than orders, and misconduct is addressed transparently. Such a body would protect human rights, uphold due process, and help rebuild public trust. However, the government must act with urgency to implement the reforms, as enough times have already passed. A truly independent commission, free from ministerial or partisan grip, is the only way to rebuild the police as a humane, service-oriented institution.
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