Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner Habibur Rahman addressed concerns about a lack of action against juvenile gangs. He emphasised that law enforcement remains committed to tackling the issue and operates freely from political influence. However, he acknowledged some ‘pressure’ from certain individuals associated with politics.
He said this while attending as the chief guest at a shadow parliament titled ‘Social movements are more effective than political will in preventing youth gangs’ organised by Debate for Democracy at Bangladesh Film Development Corporation (BFDC) in Dhaka on Saturday.
Debate for Democracy Chairman Hassan Ahamed Chowdhury Kiron chaired the event.
Habibur said, “10 out of 50 police stations in Dhaka are experiencing a surge in juvenile gang activity. These stations include Mirpur, Mohammadpur, Uttara, and Jatrabari. We have identified many juvenile gangs but have not yet directly caught the godfathers of these gangs.
“21 ward councillors in Dhaka have been accused of alleged involvement with juvenile gangs, but concrete evidence is yet to be found. However, the families and the society have to play a responsible role in juvenile delinquency.”
“Due to the lack of sports, arts, and cultural activities, teenagers are easily being lured towards crime. Children and teenagers have to agitate for a small playground in Dhaka city. To build Bangabandhu's dream of Sonar Bangla, we have to build a crime-free nation.”
Kiron remarked, “Those involved in juvenile gangs are mostly victims of apathy. There are allegations that some political leaders are using children and teenagers in their immoral activities. They are handing over arms, and committing crimes for money for various political interests. Pieces of land and houses are being occupied. If necessary, they (political leaders) even arrange for bail if the police arrest these individuals.
"Lack of good governance and the culture of impunity is also one of the reasons for the growth of juvenile gang culture. To prevent the formation of these gangs, government intervention is needed. Social movements should be developed. People from all walks of life should raise their voices against juvenile gangs.”
Kiron also pointed out that web series have become a new challenge for teenagers nowadays. Web series with extreme profanity and dirty dialogues are being shown on some online platforms. These web series are easily addictive to teenagers. BTRC needs to take action to remove such controversial web series.
The debating team from Dhaka Commerce College won the shadow parliament defeating the team from Shaheed Police Smrity College. Trophies, crests, and certificates were awarded to the winners at the end of the competition.
