DCs want code of conduct for local representatives

Deputy commissioners (DCs) yesterday suggested introduction of a code of conduct for local elected representatives and formation of a high-powered committee to recruit teachers for private educational institutions.   

They also suggested construction of a road along the country's border in Chittagong division with India and Myanmar.

The DCs were in a closed-door meeting with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina at her office in the capital.

A total of 31 DCs spoke at the meeting. The PM assured the officials of considering their suggestions, meeting sources told The Daily Star.

Divisional Commissioner Zillar Rahman of Dhaka thanked the PM for the cabinet's approval to the Public Service Act and proposals to empower mobile courts. 

“The prime minister gave us inspiring directives and told us how we could work more,” said a DC, wishing anonymity.

Another official said the premier advised them on how they could create new opportunities for the people. She asked the officials to work in a more coordinated way with the elected representatives.

Pabna DC demanded formation of a high-level committee to recruit teachers for non-government educational institutions to ensure transparency in recruitment. He said DCs receive complaints from people about irregularities in

teachers' recruitment.

The deputy commissioner of Thakurgaon requested the PM to include DCs in her entourage during her foreign trips to enable the officials to acquire knowledge.  

Referring to some incidents of misbehaviour by elected representative with public servants at the grassroots, some DCs stressed the need for introducing a code of conduct for the people's representatives.

Patuakhali DC told the meeting that there should be a code of conduct for all people involved with the field-level administration.

Meherpur DC demanded the government introduce risk allowances for them and the upazila nirbahi officers.

Gazipur DC proposed that the government set up Gazipur Unnayan Kartripakkha like the Rajuk for building a planned metropolis there.

Bandarban DC suggested construction of a road along the country's border in Chittagong division with India and Myanmar.

The DC of Narayanganj urged the PM to set up an international standard ICT university in the district.

Placing a proposal for introducing “twin-township” between the bordering towns of India and Panchagarh, Panchagarh DC said if such a plan was implemented, both the towns would be developed.  

The DC of Rajshahi called for turning the district stadium into a cricket venue.

The Dhaka DC favoured increasing manpower in the local administration to speed up work. He also suggested digitising the country's land management system.

Blaming Rohingyas for deterioration in law and order in Cox's Bazar, the district DC proposed relocating them to Hatia island of Noakhali.