A recent survey by the Police Reform Commission (PRC) revealed that 87% of respondents support introducing an emergency call service to verify the identity of law enforcement officers conducting drives, arrests, or searches without a court warrant. 

The survey, titled “What Kind of Police Do We Want?”, also highlighted growing public concerns about law enforcement practices, such as conducting late-night house searches, often without proper uniforms, search warrants, or detention orders. These practices were identified as potential contributors to incidents of enforced disappearances.

Key recommendations from the survey include:

• Use of Technology: About 77.4% of respondents suggested equipping officers with GPS tracking systems and video recording devices during searches.
• Accountability During Night Raids: 75% called for the presence of magistrates, local government representatives, or respected community members during night searches to ensure transparency.
• Curbing Political Misuse: 89.5% demanded an end to the use of police for political purposes, while 77.9% sought stricter measures against corruption within the force.
• Human Rights Protections: Nearly 75% emphasized the need for accountability for violations such as enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings.

In response to the findings, Inspector General of Police Dr. Baharul Alam welcomed the survey and its recommendations, stating that implementing these measures would make the police more accountable, people-centric, and effective in maintaining law and order.

The PRC has advised incorporating public feedback into police legislation to create a modern, law-abiding force free from corruption and political influence. The survey results, reflecting responses from 24,442 participants, are available on the PRC's official website.

The home ministry emphasized the importance of these public suggestions in shaping a reformed and trustworthy police force for the future.

BDST: 1913 HRS, DEC 07, 2024
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