Former state minister for home, Tanjim Ahmed Sohel Taj, has given a status on his Facebook page about autocracy.
He mentioned eight characteristics of autocracy. Here is the exact text of the status: “Awami League, formed by Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and Tajuddin Ahmed has always fought against autocracy to establish the rights of the masses. The two leaders brought independence to ensure the basic rights of the people.
Now, we have forgotten what an autocratic government looks like, here is a checklist for the new generation so they can understand what a despotic rule entails:

1. When people feel fear to express their opinion.

2. When criticism of the government is deemed treason.

3. When new laws are formulated and abused to persecute and repress.

4. Extrajudicial killings and enforced disappearances are carried out.

5. State apparatus is being used to cling on to power.

6. Law enforcers and police are used as thugs.

7. When private conversation of the citizens, social media posts are recorded and monitored without their knowledge and, 

8. The media and intelligence are rebuked for not informing on these issues.