Pulling rank, violating law
Just last month the police took strict action against individuals, who, despite being aware of the law, think it is completely justified to use their rank to drive on the wrong side of the road. On September 24, 57 drivers were fined for taking the wrong side on Hare Road in Dhaka. And even though the cars stopped and fined included those of a state minister, a lawmaker, several bureaucrats, police officials and media personnel, it seems we are completely incapable of learning to follow the law and will return to flouting it the moment we can.
On October 4, barely a week since the drive, a car with a flag pole had to be stopped again on the very same road. And, it comes as no surprise that the driver of the car thought himself to be completely justified in his actions as his "sir" had allegedly asked him to "go quickly". When the police refused to budge, he even tried to scare them off by calling his "sir".
The root of the problem goes beyond any individual example: we have become accustomed to the idea that those who have power or influence can be above the law. The malady goes so far as to affect their employees, who think they can exercise that power in the name of their employers.
In a previous editorial we pointed out how flagrant traffic violations have collapsed our traffic system causing chaos, jam, accidents and disruptions in public life and safety. We congratulated the police saying that in a culture where power breeds impunity, VIPs were being held accountable. We congratulate them again for their perseverance. It is refreshing to see that even if the influentials don't learn fast, the police are determined to put an end to this culture. We are hopeful that the drive, which has gained momentum, will continue.
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