National Citizen Party (NCP) Convener and Opposition Chief Whip Nahid Islam has strongly demanded the immediate resignation of Inspector General of Police (IGP) Md Ali Hossain Fakir following his controversial remarks regarding extrajudicial killings, commonly known as 'crossfire'. Speaking at a well-attended public gathering in Gazipur, Islam asserted that a mere apology is entirely insufficient for such grave remarks and insisted that the police chief no longer holds the moral right to remain in office.
The controversy erupted after the IGP reportedly stated during an event in Old Dhaka's Chawkbazar that law enforcement agencies would resort to 'crossfire' if instructed by the government and demanded by the situation. This open endorsement of extrajudicial methods drew immediate condemnation from human rights defenders, political analysts, and citizens alike. Addressing the crowd, Nahid Islam expressed deep dismay, pointing out that even during the tenure of the previous regime, top law enforcement officials rarely expressed such intentions so openly or aggressively.
Emphasizing the urgent need for systemic institutional changes, the NCP leader called for comprehensive reforms within the police department. He argued that the agency responsible for maintaining the rule of law and protecting citizens cannot be led by individuals who threaten unlawful violence. Dismantling the legacy of political interference and human rights violations left behind by past administrations requires a thorough overhaul of the police command structure to ensure accountability and professionalism.
Shifting focus to local governance and upcoming electoral processes, Nahid Islam raised serious concerns over grassroots political dominance and the potential for executive overreach. He warned that both the government and the Election Commission would face monumental failure if they proved incapable of guaranteeing free, fair, and credible elections. Pointing fingers at attempts by certain political factions to establish unilateral dominance at the local level, he stressed that partisan control over electoral administration must be strictly prevented.
Concluding his address, Islam issued a stern warning that his party and the public would take to the streets in massive protest if authorities attempted to manipulate elections through partisan influence, reminiscent of past authoritarian practices. He reiterated that the sacrifices made during recent national movements demand a truly democratic society anchored in justice, transparency, and respect for human rights, leaving no room for impunity within state institutions.
