Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) has strongly criticized the recent statement by the Bangladesh Police Service Association (BPSA) regarding media reports on police corruption.

TIB sees the BPSA's stance as an attempt to undermine press freedom and shield corrupt officials.

TIB Executive Director Dr. Iftekharuzzaman expressed grave concern over the BPSA's dismissal of corruption reports involving former top police officials. He argued that the association's statement poses a threat to media freedom and violates citizens' constitutional rights to access information.

"This appears to be a systematic effort to protect those accused within the force," he said, likening the BPSA's approach to "burying its head in the sand like an ostrich."

Dr. Iftekharuzzaman also criticized the BPSA's claim that corruption reports tarnish the police image.

He pointed out that detailed media investigations into corruption should be met with transparency and accountability rather than deflection.

He suggested that a more constructive response would be to announce internal investigations or support independent probes into the allegations.

Acknowledging the police's contributions to various national crises and struggles, including the war of independence, Dr. Iftekharuzzaman emphasized that these contributions should not excuse abuse of power or corruption. He stressed that ethical integrity is paramount for law enforcement agencies.

Reports indicate that following the BPSA's statement, the Ministry of Home Affairs issued a letter to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, urging caution in media reporting about the police.

TIB has called this an ominous signal for media freedom and the democratic accountability system in the country.

The organisation also urged the Home Ministry and the BPSA to conduct thorough and transparent inquiries into the corruption allegations, fulfilling their constitutional duties to ensure public accountability.