Rab must move beyond past controversies

Home Affairs Adviser Lt Gen (retd) Jahangir Alam Chowdhury yesterday called upon Rapid Action Battalion (Rab) members to move beyond past controversies and dedicate themselves to their duties with renewed commitment.

"Rab must operate by the law while upholding human rights," he said while addressing the 21st founding anniversary of Rab at its headquarters in the capital's Uttara as the chief guest.

Jahangir said the interim government is committed to establishing good governance, human rights, and justice.

"To ensure the rule of law, the government is working to reassess, reform, and restructure Rab. I hope the people will soon begin to reap the benefits of these efforts," he said.

The adviser acknowledged that the force has long faced allegations of enforced disappearances, extrajudicial killings, and other rights violations, particularly when it was allegedly used as a political tool.

"Such misuse reached its peak during the tenure of the previous fascist regime," he said. "Rab must never again be allowed to serve political interests."

However, he noted that in recent times, Rab has played a proactive role in maintaining law and order, apprehending criminals, recovering illegal firearms, and conducting anti-narcotics drives.

Rab Director General (Grade-1) AKM Shahidur Rahman delivered the welcome address at the event. Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman and Inspector General of Police Baharul Alam also attended the event, alongside senior officials from the military and civil administration.

A documentary on Rab's activities was screened at the ceremony. The adviser also cut a cake to mark the anniversary.

The Rab has long been accused of violating human rights. In 2021, the US imposed sanctions on the Rab and six former top officials of the agency over reports of gross rights violations.

Earlier, the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, in its fact-finding report on the July uprising, recommended disbanding the force, citing serious human rights violations and abuses.

According to Rab officials, a draft of the Rab Law-2024 is being prepared to ensure accountability within the force.

On May 12, during a meeting of the Advisory Council Committee on Law and Order at the home ministry, a committee was formed under the leadership of Lt Gen (retd) Abdul Hafiz, special assistant to the chief adviser, with several force chiefs as members to oversee the restructuring of the Rab.

The committee has also been authorised to co-opt other members if needed.