Romel's death

The circumstances of the death of Romel Chakma of Nanyarchar remains shrouded in confusion. The young man died on April 20, allegedly, while in custody of the army, who had picked him up from Nanyarchar Bazaar on April 5 this year.

The matter has been confounded by different versions of the Army and the Police. The Army account that he was handed over to the police has been contested by the latter who denies that it had ever taken custody of Romel.

The fact is that a visually impaired youth has died under unexplained situation and one has not come by a sound explanation of the cause and circumstances of his death, the matter mystified even more by the fact that he was cremated, reportedly, without the family being informed about it.

We feel that a credible account is in order since silence in matters such as this, where the reputation of a national institution like the Army is at issue, breeds speculation which becomes difficult to control.

We feel that truth and transparency does not discredit an institution, on the contrary it strengthens credibility and enhances its image. It could well be that there were transgressions by certain members of the army in this instance, who might well have been working outside their writ, quite unbeknownst to their superior officers. And it is only being fair to the good name of the Army that transgressions, if any, are enquired into and the responsible members made examples of.

Over the years Bangladesh Army has acquired global fame through its contribution to UN Peacekeeping, and for its disaster management efforts within the country. And its professionalism has been given due recognition. So nothing should be allowed to happen that spoils the image of the Army in the public eye.