We Cannot Expect a Revolutionary Change in Law and Order Overnight: Home Minister

Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed has said that a “revolutionary change” in the country’s law and order situation cannot be expected overnight. He claimed that since the government took office, there has not been a single criminal incident in which police failed to arrest suspects or bring them under the legal process.

He made the remarks on Wednesday (August 26) at a doa and milad programme organised at the BNP central office in Nayapaltan, Dhaka, marking Eid-e-Miladunnabi (PBUH).

The home minister said the government inherited a law enforcement system that was in a fragile state, while it also had to deal with the situation following the 2024 mass uprising and high public expectations.

He said the government was simultaneously working to modernise the law enforcement agencies, strengthen the morale of their members and encourage them to serve as people-oriented forces.

Government claims arrests in all major crimes
Referring to the government’s activities over the past six months, Salahuddin Ahmed claimed that police had not failed to arrest suspects or bring them under the legal process in any criminal case since the government assumed responsibility.

Citing an incident in Rangpur, he said those involved were brought under the law within a reasonable period after the incident occurred.

He also referred to the Ramisa murder case and other nationally discussed or less-publicised crimes, saying authorities had been able to address the incidents and initiate appropriate legal proceedings.

The minister said the government had also extended cooperation to expedite judicial proceedings where necessary. However, he added that it would not be reasonable to expect much more within such a short period.

Pledge to make police people-friendly
Salahuddin Ahmed pledged to transform the police force into a people-friendly institution capable of meeting public expectations.

He said the morale of police and other law enforcement personnel had improved significantly over the past six months and that they were now working with renewed strength to combat crime.

He also said changes were being made to the legal frameworks governing other law enforcement agencies to ensure greater accountability and transparency.

According to the minister, officers are also being recognised with awards, certificates and medals for good performance.

‘Public expectations will be fulfilled’
The home minister reiterated that a dramatic overnight transformation in law and order should not be expected.

However, he expressed confidence that under the leadership and direction of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, the government would be able to improve the law and order situation to a level that would meet public expectations.

He also called on citizens to cooperate with law enforcement agencies, particularly by providing relevant information.