The government, which has largely managed to stabilize key economic indicators, now finds itself grappling with an escalating law and order crisis. Inflation, once soaring at 11.66%, has now fallen into single digits, and the central bank governor remains optimistic that it will drop to 5% by June-July. Export revenues have increased, and labor unrest has also been brought to a manageable level. However, despite these positive developments, the persistent security issues across the country remain a major concern, leaving policymakers visibly unsettled.

Lieutenant General (Retd.) Jahangir Alam Chowdhury, the Home Affairs Advisor, has announced several measures over time to control the deteriorating law and order situation. However, these steps have failed to restore public confidence. Reliable government sources indicate that a policy decision has been made to relieve him of his duties, with discussions now focusing on how to carry out this transition in a dignified manner. While no final decision has been made regarding his replacement, most advisors within the government agree on the need for new leadership in the Home Affairs division. Additionally, concerns over his declining health have added to the urgency of the matter.

A senior government policymaker, speaking to Desh Rupantor on Wednesday (March 12), stated, “As an individual, the Home Affairs Advisor is a sincere and honest person. However, given the current state of the country, his leadership has proven ineffective. Petty theft has increased in neighborhoods, and fears of organized crime are growing. Women feel unsafe while commuting, and incidents of rape and murder have surged across various regions. The disconnect between law enforcement agencies and the public is deepening, compelling the government to reconsider its approach.”

He further noted, “The primary topic of discussion in both mainstream and social media is now law and order. Fear spreads overnight due to various rumors. Despite deploying the military as a striking force, criticism has not ceased. Small protests have escalated into large-scale demonstrations, even reaching the Chief Advisor’s residence. Social media is filled with satire and criticism, and public dissatisfaction with the Home Affairs Ministry is evident. Attacks on police personnel and mob violence have become almost daily occurrences. Press conferences are held to announce new initiatives, but these have failed to reassure the public. Even a press briefing at 2:30 AM raised eyebrows, adding to the government's embarrassment.”

Adding to the challenges, a senior official from the Home Ministry disclosed that Advisor Jahangir Alam Chowdhury has been dealing with health issues, including high blood pressure and age-related ailments. He has been admitted to the Combined Military Hospital multiple times in recent months, raising concerns about his ability to effectively lead such a critical department.

Meanwhile, discussions are underway at the Secretariat regarding a potential expansion of the government before the upcoming Eid. Speculation includes the possibility of restructuring the Home Ministry as part of this initiative.

Recent incidents, such as the rape of an eight-year-old girl in Magura, a series of violent crimes against women, and the murders of a former Habibullah Bahar College teacher and three brothers in Madaripur, have intensified public outcry. Protests in Shahbagh have paralyzed the capital, and attacks on police forces continue unabated.

In response, the government has already implemented several measures through the Home Ministry. These include establishing security checkpoints at key locations in Dhaka and increasing patrols in crime-prone areas. A joint task force comprising military, police, and Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) personnel has been deployed to conduct targeted operations in high-risk zones. Additionally, a comprehensive set of further actions has been planned to improve the security situation.

Despite these efforts, public confidence remains low, and criticism persists. The coming days will be crucial in determining whether the government can regain control over the worsening law and order situation and how it navigates the potential leadership transition in the Home Affairs Ministry.