Implementing HC directives is now the challenge
We commend the High Court for declaring river grabbing and pollution criminal offences in a landmark judgment. As the full text of the HC verdict was released on July 1, we have come to know of the 17-point directive the HC has given in an attempt to save our rivers, most of which are now in a deplorable condition because of continuous grabbing by local influential people and pollution by indifferent and non-compliant industries. What is more, such acts of complete disregard for our rivers take place under the nose of the local administration, and sometimes in connivance with the administration itself.
The High Court's directives are all very well-thought-out and, if implemented, can actually go a long way in saving our rivers. But for that, those who are entrusted with implementing the directives should be compliant. As the court has directed that no river grabbers or polluters can participate in any elections, the EC must ensure that. Likewise, the Bangladesh Bank must make sure that no banks give loans to these people. The government must also play its part by making a list of the river grabbers and publicising their names in the media and ensuring that these people get the punishment they deserve for destroying our lifelines that these rivers are. The National River Conservation Commission (NRCC), being the legal guardian of all rivers, must act like the "parents" of these rivers. But for the NRCC to play its part, it must be empowered and the river commission law must be amended incorporating stringent provisions for the offenders.
After the HC directives, we hope that there will be no foot-dragging by the relevant agencies in carrying out their responsibilities. And we also hope that no political influence can stop the authorities from taking action against the offenders.
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