CHATTOGRAM, Dec 18: Speakers at a dialogue on Wednesday called for establishing a separate police service commission to transform the police into a politically unbiased and citizen-oriented institution.
They highlighted the importance of eliminating corruption, including irregularities in recruitment, transfers, and case management, to build a trustworthy and transparent police force.
Participants stressed that police reform should prioritize public service, ensure accountability and strengthen community relationships.
The dialogue, titled "Public Expectations and Actions on Police Reform," was organized by Young Power in Social Action (YPSA) with technical support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) at a hotel in Chattogram.
Civil society representatives, students, community leaders, and law enforcement officials including representatives from the Chattogram Metropolitan Police (CMP) and district police attended the event, expressing their views on how to build a modern, inclusive, and human rights-sensitive police system.
Participants called for making police stations more accessible and citizen-friendly and bribe-free, ensuring better public safety services, and creating a system that is responsive to the needs of marginalized communities, including women and children.
The dialogue also focused on restoring public trust by increasing transparency and accountability within the police force.
The speakers underscored the role of collective efforts, urging greater public participation in shaping reforms.
They envisioned a police service that embodies justice, fairness, and inclusivity.
Professor Amir Mohammad Nasrullah from The University of Chittagong, moderated the discussion.
He stressed that a reformed police system must prioritize public interest over politics.
"Police reform is critical for ensuring justice and social harmony", YPSA Director (Finance) Polash Chowdhury said while delivering his welcome speech.
Additional DIG of Chattogram Range Nesar Uddin Ahmed and Deputy Commissioner (South) of Chattogram Metropolitan Police Shakila Sultana were present at the event as special guests, voicing their commitment to building a more effective and community-focused policing system.
Speakers shared their insights and recommendations, focusing on better training, higher ethical standards, and increased public engagement to create a more people-oriented police service.
The dialogue concluded with a pledge to compile the insights and recommendations into a detailed report for submission to the Police Reform Commission.
Participants expressed optimism that this initiative would lead to meaningful reforms and the police would play their role as protectors of human rights and public safety.
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