One of the more unfortunate developments following the ouster of the previous Awami League government has been a sharp increase in criminal activity throughout Bangladesh. From petty crimes to bigger offenses such as robberies, citizens are becoming increasingly wary of an environment of diminished safety and security when it comes to day-to-day life.
Going by data shared by the police headquarters, violent crimes -- including murders, robberies, and kidnappings -- witnessed a not-so-insignificant rise during the four months following the change in government compared to the preceding four months. From August 1 to November 30, 1,361 murders were reported nationwide, up from 1,158 recorded from April 1 to July 31.
The number of robberies also went up, with 464 incidents compared to 416 in the previous four months. Other criminal activities, such as dacoity and kidnappings, have also been observed to have risen.
This is entirely a law and order issue, and despite the interim government’s best efforts, such as giving the army magistracy powers, it is clear that band-aid measures will simply not do.
We need increased police presence on the streets without delay, and it all starts with the reforms promised regarding law enforcement.
There is a glaring vacuum in our law enforcement as things stand, and justifications such as low morale will simply not do anymore. Citizens need to start feeling safe whether outside or inside their homes, and the only way to ensure that is by way of a robust police force.
A dedicated commission to oversee police reforms had been announced all the way back in September, but we have yet to see the law and order situation improve.
Waiting for progress is no longer acceptable.
