Extortion on the streets

Extortion by policemen and political elements is not a new story. But when the extent of it is revealed in the media, as in this newspaper yesterday, it becomes cause for serious concern. Our report, based on figures made available by the Bangladesh Hawkers Federation, shows that on a single day (and that is every day), as much as Tk. 1.3 crore are extorted from 2.6 lakh hawkers on the streets of the capital. Where does the money go? To the police and to local activists of the ruling party and its front organisations, of course.
Now, the inspector general of police informs citizens that whenever specific allegations are made, the department inquires into them. Why not have those inquiries made on the basis of news reports and citizens' complaints? And are we to believe that senior police officials remain unaware of the corruption indulged in by men under their command?
For his part, the local Jubo League chief echoes the IGP. If anyone brings specific allegations of extortion against Jubo League activists, the organization will look into the matter. In a society where citizens can lodge complaints at risk to their self-respect and even life, does the JL leader really believe that anyone will come to his office to name names?
Hawkers' occupation of pavements is certainly not acceptable, but that is a different matter altogether. Yet when extortionists make it a point to derive pecuniary advantage from the predicament of the poor, we are made aware of the long road we yet must travel before we can build a decent social order for ourselves. Will those who matter take note?