PM Hasina asks RAB to ‘keep in mind human rights’

Prime minister Sheikh Hasina on Thursday stressed importance of upholding human rights in enforcing laws, reports UNB.

She asked members of Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) to be careful so that people are not unnecessarily harassed while taking actions against criminals.

"Actions will have to be taken against those who're truly involved in offences. But I request (you) to take special attention so that no innocent person is subjected to harassment," she said.

The prime minister gave the directive while addressing a function marking the 15th founding anniversary of RAB Forces at its headquarters in the city.

Sheikh Hasina asked the RAB members to be always careful about upholding human rights during enforcement of laws so that people can lead their normal life.

"You'll have to keep human rights in mind while enforcing any law," she said.

She directed the elite force members to take proper actions against the criminals, no matter who they are. "But you'll have to be careful at the same time so that no one is subjected to unnecessary harassment," she added.

Terming drug abuse a big problem in society, she reaffirmed her government's firm stance to continue the ongoing drive against drugs in the country.

Sheikh Hasina asked the authorities concerned to continue public awareness programmes alongside the anti-drug drive so that the young generation does not engage in drug abuse. "The drive will continue against all involved in the smuggling, production, peddling or supply of drugs," she said.

Describing militancy a global problem, she said Bangladesh has gained a huge success in curbing militancy. "The success of law enforcement agencies in containing militancy is acclaimed throughout the world."

The prime minister thanked RAB for playing a significant role in curbing the militancy and asked law enforcement agencies to create social awareness alongside intercepting the criminals so that no one gets engaged in crimes. "You'll have to work for the welfare of the country and its people being imbued with the spirit of patriotism."

Focusing on the successes of RAB in different areas, the prime minister said public confidence and trust have been created in RAB members and people now respect the elite force.

She thanked the RAB members for making the Sundarbans freed from forest robbers and pirates.

Hasina said if any robber or pirate wants to return to normal life, the government will arrange his livelihood as did for 328 members of 32 pirate gangs of the Sundarbans region, who laid down their weapons and returned to normal life.

"If those who are engaged in anti-social activities return to normal life, we'll take adequate measures for ensuring their livelihood," she said.

Praising the role of the law enforcement agencies in holding the 11th parliamentary in a peaceful manner, she said since her government was re-elected, it wants to develop the country further and ensure a safe life for all.

"If we can ensure a peaceful situation, we'll be able to accelerate the economic development further while foreign investment will come into the country on a larger scale," she said.

On her arrival at the venue, a smartly-turned out contingent of RAB gave a guard of honour to the Prime Minister.

Home minister Asaduzzaman Khan also spoke on the occasion, while RAB director general Benazir Ahmed delivered the welcome speech.

The prime minister unveiled the plaques of the foundation stones of the RAB-10, 13 and 14.