Ex-additional IGP Motiur calls for autonomous commission to oversee law enforcement

Former Additional Inspector General of Police Motiur Rahman Sheikh today called for the establishment of an autonomous police commission to strengthen accountability and transparency in the country's policing system.

He made the proposal while delivering the keynote speech at a roundtable titled "Need for Police Reform: Civil Society Perspective", organised by The Daily Star at the Daily Star Centre around 4:00pm.

Motiur suggested that the commission be an autonomous body comprising nine to eleven members, including former and current justices, senior government officials, eminent human rights defenders, veteran journalists, and respected civil society representatives.

He stressed the importance of women's participation to ensure the body's independence and credibility.

"Independent police commissions are already in place in countries such as Malaysia, Singapore, Sri Lanka, India, Pakistan, the UK, Ireland, China, Canada, and the USA," he said.

Outlining its mandate, Motiur said the commission would investigate complaints against police, establish grievance mechanisms for officers, and oversee recruitment, transfers, and promotions.

It would also recommend reforms, advise on the appointment of the inspector general of police, monitor discipline and code of conduct, prevent corruption, and enforce accountability.

He added that the commission should be required to submit annual reports to parliament and develop mechanisms to protect the force from undue political or external interference.Mahfuz Anam, editor and publisher of The Daily Star, gave the welcome speech at the programme and also moderated the event.