Village police and dufadars (village watchmen) play an indispensable role in maintaining law and order in the rural areas of Bangladesh. Each Union Parishad appoints village police and dufadars under its jurisdiction to ensure the safety and security of the rural population. Their duties and powers are clearly defined under various laws and government regulations.
Primary Responsibilities of the Village Police
- Protection of People and Property
One of the foremost responsibilities of the village police is to safeguard the rural populace and their belongings. They undertake regular patrols and work actively to prevent criminal activities. - Providing Vigilance in Villages and Unions
Village police and dufadars maintain vigilance throughout the villages to uphold peace and law and order. They monitor suspicious individuals and assist in crime prevention. - Assisting the Police Force
The village police aid local police stations by providing information and support in crime control. They regularly report the law and order situation to the Officer-in-Charge (OIC) of the local police station. - Preventing Disturbances and Conflicts
Whenever a situation arises that may disrupt peace within the union, the village police promptly inform the police station and submit a report every fifteen days. - Protection of Government Property and Alertness During Emergencies
They are responsible for protecting government properties such as railway lines, telecommunication facilities, tube wells, and others. They must immediately notify the Union Parishad and relevant authorities if there is any threat of epidemic, obstruction, irrigation project damage, or illegal occupation of Union Parishad property.
Arrest Powers of the Village Police
Village police and dufadars have the authority to arrest individuals in certain circumstances without the permission of a magistrate. The legal basis for these powers includes:
- The Bangladesh Police (Village Police) Regulations, 1976 outline the duties and powers of village police and dufadars.
- Under the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898 (as applicable in Bangladesh), they may make arrests without warrants in specific cases.
- They may arrest persons who:
- Are involved in serious offences under court proceedings.
- Possess materials unlawfully intended for house demolition.
- Are declared offenders by courts or government orders.
- Have stolen property or goods associated with crimes in their possession.
- Escape or attempt to escape lawful custody.
- Are known to have absconded from the Bangladesh Army, Navy, or Air Force.
- Obstruct government officials or employees in performing official duties.
Legal Framework
| Legislation and Regulation | Subject Matter |
| Bangladesh Police (Village Police) Regulations, 1976 | Governs appointment, responsibilities, powers, and administrative structure of village police. |
| Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898 | Defines arrest procedures, investigation protocols, and legal framework for police actions. |
| Bangladesh Union Parishad Act, 2009 | Regulates appointment and scope of work of village police under Union Parishads. |
| Laws on Crime Prevention | Details special provisions on crime control and cooperation of village police. |
Village police and dufadars are vital instruments in maintaining law and order and fostering peace in the rural communities of Bangladesh. Their operations are supported by a strong legal framework, enabling them to effectively protect citizens’ rights and safety. Therefore, proper training, recognition, and efficient management of village police are crucial to sustaining rural security and justice.