Politics takes its toll

WE express our deep concern at the news of fierce gunfight in Moheshkhali between two rival groups belonging to the Awami League and the BNP that left three people dead and 50 injured. The incident took place while the 14-party alliance was enforcing its blockade programme in the area. It is worrisome indeed that such incidences of growing political killings are spreading into the rural areas of the outlying districts that hitherto witnessed comparative calm and a stable environment.

With the election round the corner we simply must deal with such armed violence with strong hand. Amongst the various factors we need to attend to on an urgent basis is to haul up all illegal firearms in the hands of the armed cadres of various political parties. We thus recommend a comprehensive arms recovery drive be undertaken by the administration with immediate effect. We have already lost much valuable time. The recovery plan amongst others should be clear, pragmatic and free from any ambiguities.

In this regard the Caretaker Government's committee has to play the key role ensuring strict compliance. Side by side, assistance on voluntary basis should also be sought from members of the civil society who would more than welcome such drive. On the other hand, as part and parcel of the overall arms recovery, members of the public should also be asked to surrender all licenced firearms in their possession till the election is over. It should be clearly understood that no matter how well a "level playing field" is created through reforming the various electoral processes, guns in the hands of the cadres belonging to various political parties are bound to mar the entire election. Not only that, it is bound to have a direct impact on the voter turn-out at the booths.

We are also of the conviction that now is as good a time as any to catch the already listed and known criminals and recover the arms lying in their possession. We feel it should all be quite possible with the kind of authority vested in the Caretaker Government.