Time and time again, ever since the fall of the Awami League regime and the interim government taking charge last August, there has been one resounding criticism amidst the numerous positives -- the dire state of law and order in the country.
The interim government has rightfully been commended for the numerous positive changes it has brought to the nation, but it must also shoulder responsibility for what has unfortunately been a steady deterioration of safety and security.
To that end, we are simultaneously pleased and relieved to see the Chief Advisor’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam stating that patrols will be increased across Dhaka and in areas where law and order have deteriorated.
To say that this has been a long time coming would be a gross understatement. Such a move was needed many months ago, but it is good to see the interim government has finally recognized the need to take such measures.
What is important now is to ensure that these proposed patrolling activities -- with the police, army, and in some cases navy and BGB personnel conducting combined patrolling together -- are carried out with the seriousness the situation warrants.
However, while this increased security was a necessity, it is also important for those patrolling to not intimidate the general public and create tension in day-to-day activities. In the past, the police in particular have been guilty of employing intimidation and threats as tactics to strike fear into everyday citizens, and we expect those patrolling to not be drawn towards such an approach.
While it is unfortunate that our capital has come to a point where we need regular patrolling to monitor the situation, nothing is more important than restoring law and order and ensuring that citizens are safe.