A second look at RAB

The news that RAB is being challenged in a court of law heartens me. This unit has come under public scrutiny because of custodial deaths and there is no better place to judge their actions than the courts. I am sure that the court in its wisdom will provide the right verdict on RAB subjecting it to the law and mot over it.

I am nevertheless sad that those who have brought this case against RAB have done so not to question the custodial deaths but on the whole question of legality of having RAB at all. There is no doubt that the inspiration for this has come from a political party , which has publicly called for the disbanding of RAB calling it a "killing force". The party backs its case against RAB for the 33 or so deaths that have occurred at the hands of RAB.

It is true that there is a strong case against such deaths. However, there are some other issues here that also need consideration in reaching an assessment on RAB. Despite all the protests from human rights groups, there seems to be considerable public support now for RAB particularly because it has been able to nab or kill some major terrorists. A few incidents have given people the confidence that RAB is working above political bias and even political godfathers are not secure.

I have been very critical of RAB but now I would like to have a second look at it. I would feel better if the government cautioned RAB on human rights issues and also to pursue some of the top criminals through the court to reveal the nexus between them and the politicians. As for these lawyers who filed the case , they should welcome RAB and help keep it above politics while working to ensure that any action that RAB takes, that conflicts the law, is pursued legally and above politics.