Dhaka: The Police Reform Commission (PRC) has put forward a series of recommendations aimed at making the police force in Bangladesh free from corruption and more service-oriented. Central to these recommendations is the formation of an all-party committee, a task force, and the establishment of policies related to recruitment, transfer, and promotion. Additionally, the PRC emphasizes the need for action against delays in receiving general diary entries or evidence of corruption.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the PRC report, which was submitted to Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus on January 15, suggests the creation of an ‘all-party committee’ at each police station or upazila level. This committee would function as an oversight body to implement effective measures against corruption. Furthermore, the report proposes the establishment of a special task force to formulate long-term recommendations, leveraging the experience of the all-party committee.
The PRC report also highlights the necessity of forming a watchdog or oversight committee as a short-term measure to prevent any deliberate deviations or professional corruption within the police force. Transparency in recruitment processes is deemed crucial, with the involvement of officers or employees who meet high standards of honesty and ethics.
The recommendations extend to the importance of honesty and integrity in the posting, transfer, and promotion of police officers. The report calls for clear policies at various levels, ensuring that all concerned parties are informed. Immediate investigations by the Superintendent of Police are advised for any extortion allegations against police officers.
The PRC also recommends a re-evaluation of the current reward structure within the police force, which lacks specific criteria and is susceptible to influence. The report points out allegations of misuse within the reward system, suggesting a need for scrutiny of related rules and regulations.
Further, the report underscores the necessity of adequate allocations for police stations in sectors such as transportation of bodies, handling witnesses, and managing unclaimed body funerals. It recommends that delays or objections in receiving general diary entries or evidence of corruption should be met with appropriate punishment. Special allocations and allowances are suggested for activities related to general diaries and verification, including increased case investigation costs.
To prevent conflicts of interest, the PRC advises that no mediation, arbitration, Alternate Dispute Resolution (ADR) meetings, or other arrangements should be conducted with plaintiffs or defendants at police stations.