Senior journalist Shafik Rehman on Saturday emphasised the need to maintain law and order, identifying the police force as a key institution in ensuring stability and democratic governance.
He made the remarks while speaking at a gathering of editors and senior journalists during BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman’s first official meeting with the media, held at the Grand Ballroom of Sheraton Hotel in Banani.
Shafik Rehman said the police are under pressure from multiple sides, as they are required to follow government directives while also managing street protests.
He questioned the methods used to maintain order, asking whether force such as shootings, killings, baton charges, water cannons, or pepper spray should be employed.
He said that a professional and accountable police force could be built if officers are trained with renewed ethical standards and moral values. He added that he has raised these concerns with police officials at various levels.
Referring to a recent survey, Shafik Rehman claimed that 70 per cent of the population is inclined to vote for the BNP, noting that such public support should be reflected through a fair electoral process and the formation of a representative government.
He said the police are capable of performing their duties professionally if provided with proper ethical training.
He also urged BNP leader Tarique Rahman to consider bringing journalists under the existing legal framework of the universal pension scheme, stressing the need to ensure the welfare and security of media professionals.
Shafik Rehman further referred to the Bangladesh Bank heist involving billions of Taka, warning that similar incidents must not be allowed to recur. He called for the formation of a special committee to investigate the matter.
He also raised concerns over large-scale money laundering from commercial banks and questioned how such activities were allowed to take place, emphasizing the need for strict oversight.
Additionally, he stressed the importance of keeping prices of daily essentials stable and within the purchasing capacity of the public, urging those in authority to pay close attention to the issue.
The event was attended by editors of national dailies, heads of electronic media, senior officials of news agencies, and veteran journalists.
