This may sound harsh, or you might think the writer has a cold heart—but hear me out. Sometimes, tough measures are the only cure. In Bangladesh, politeness is often mistaken for weakness. Requests are laughed at and ignored. Look around—whether it’s traffic on the roads or prayers in the mosque—there’s a persistent habit of disregarding rules. And it’s not out of ignorance; people know the rules but choose to ignore them, as if to prove they are untouchable. A gentle approach doesn’t work. But discipline? That straightens them out instantly. Need proof?
The same people who defy authority in democracy become utterly obedient under dictatorship or military rule. Yet, when given freedom, they misuse it to trample on others’ rights. Just observe public speakers—whether it’s a religious preacher or a street salesman—do they seem civilized? When given the freedom to speak, they flood the air with nonsense, making you wonder how they managed to stay quiet before! Sometimes, only a firm hand can restore order.
There is no medicine stronger than discipline. Some argued that students should never be physically punished. Look at the results! Let’s be honest: a student in modern Dhaka with all its conveniences grows up very differently from one in a remote village in Faridpur. Their perspectives, attitudes, and mindsets are worlds apart. Who are policymakers catering to? Look at the country’s most successful individuals—especially government officials. The majority come from rural backgrounds. How did they succeed? Through strict discipline—teachers’ punishments, parents’ strict rules. If not for those, many would be running small grocery shops in their hometowns!
If out of a million people, a hundred are troublemakers, then everyone’s life becomes unsafe. Sure, moral lessons might reform ten of them. But what about the rest? There’s a reason for the old saying: “Nothing works like discipline.” If someone is corrupt, catch them with proof and discipline them properly. Not just them—no one in their family or circle will dare to engage in corruption again. Idealistic preaching doesn’t work on everyone. How many sermons, religious teachings, and moral stories have been told in villages? Every student has studied ethics and religious teachings in school. Yet, some people will always twist good advice. Some will always disturb society. Stop treating them with kindness. Discipline them properly, and they will either reform or at least stay dormant.
Does the idea of strict discipline offend you? Think about why you understand right from wrong today. If you had never been corrected or disciplined as a child, you’d be clueless. Schools took away teachers’ authority to discipline. Did society improve? Parents might not hit their kids, but can they stop scolding them altogether? Discipline must remain in place for future generations to learn. Look around at today’s youth—how many are on the right track? Can you see which direction the nation is heading? Enforce proper governance, and things will improve. You’ll see the benefits. If the writer had never been disciplined as a child, perhaps he would be a drug addict today!
Parents, you only have one or two children. You love them dearly, but discipline is just as important. One day, if you fail to enforce it, it might be too late to fix things. When society’s leaders held authority, justice was upheld. When teachers had control, education had quality. This is not about personal grudges—it’s about building a just and prosperous society. A nation thrives when good people are empowered and wrongdoers are held accountable. Do you understand now?
