Staff Correspondent:

Mahmudur Rahman Manna, the top leader of Ganatantra Mancha and president of Nagorik Oikya, has criticized the police for their unchanged mentality and actions, saying that there has been no significant reform within the force.

His remarks came during a rally and protest march organized by Ganatantra Mancha in front of the National Press Club on Saturday.

He claimed that the police continue to take bribes, avoid investigations, and refuse to file cases at police stations.

According to Manna, law and order have deteriorated across the country, with incidents such as muggings and rapes occurring openly, and the government failing to take action.

The rally aimed to protest the attacks on Jatiya Samajtantrik Dal (JSD) and Nagorik Oikya leaders and activists, as well as the filing of false cases against them in various regions of the country.

He further elaborated on an incident in Shibganj, where a violent attack on his party members occurred after they placed wreaths at the Shaheed Minar on February 21. Manna recounted how their convener in Shibganj was stabbed and others were beaten.

Despite attempting to file a case at the police station, they were denied justice when the officer-in-charge removed the names of the accused and refused to accept the case. Manna pointed out the continuing failure of the police to act impartially and uphold the law.

Addressing the police in Shibganj, Manna said that, just two days after the attack, BNP members threw hand bombs and fired shots, resulting in a case being filed against 12 of their key members.

The police, in stark contrast, accepted this case in just five minutes, showcasing how police actions depend on which political group is in power. He criticized the administration for operating according to the interests of particular parties, especially the extortion and land-grabbing activities that have become rampant.

Manna also revealed that he had contacted Tarique Rahman, who listened to his concerns and assured him that BNP would try to adhere to political etiquette. However, Manna emphasized that the current situation still points to the unchecked influence of political power over the police.

Addressing the government, Manna raised concerns about the upcoming elections. He questioned whether the police would follow the orders of the government or continue to serve the interests of specific political parties.

He also asked if any meaningful reform had taken place within the police force and expressed his rejection of an administration where the police, UNOs, and other state agencies operate based on the special instructions of individuals or political groups.

Manna concluded by welcoming the Jatiya Nagorik Party, stressing the importance of acquiring advanced knowledge and enriching politics with intellectual depth. He praised the youth for their contributions to political change and expressed hope that, in the future, democracy would be guided by tolerance, rational discourse, and continuous learning.

The rally also saw the participation of several other leaders of Ganatantra Mancha, who stood in solidarity with Manna’s calls for police reform and political justice.