Home Affairs Adviser Lt Gen (Retd) Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury was speaking to reporters after a meeting of the Advisory Council on Law and Order at the Secretariat
Home Affairs Adviser Lt Gen (Retd) Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury has announced that members of law enforcement agencies will be deployed from September 24 to ensure the peaceful celebration of Durga Puja across the country.
Speaking to reporters after a meeting of the Advisory Council on Law and Order at the Secretariat, the Home Adviser highlighted the measures being taken to maintain public safety during the festival.
“The Ministry of Women and Children Affairs will appoint 80,000 volunteers this year,” he said. “It is crucial for everyone to remain vigilant and cooperate to ensure that the celebrations proceed smoothly.”
Lt Gen Chowdhury also noted a positive trend in public safety compared with previous years. “Incidents of idol vandalism have significantly decreased this year,” he said, adding that those involved in such acts are being identified through CCTV footage and will be held accountable under the law.
Enhanced security measures
The Home Adviser explained that law enforcement agencies, including police and auxiliary forces, will be stationed at key puja mandaps, processions, and other festival venues. Their presence aims to prevent any untoward incidents and maintain order, particularly in areas that have historically experienced security challenges.
Community participation
The deployment will be complemented by the participation of 80,000 festival volunteers, who will assist in crowd management, monitor safety protocols, and help coordinate with authorities in case of emergencies. Authorities are also urging the public to report any suspicious activities promptly to maintain a secure environment.
Officials have stressed that this year’s preparations reflect a broader effort to strengthen communal harmony and ensure that cultural celebrations can proceed without disruption. Authorities remain committed to safeguarding citizens’ rights to celebrate their festivals peacefully.
Looking ahead
With Durga Puja set to begin soon, the combined efforts of law enforcement agencies and volunteer networks aim to create a safe, secure, and joyous environment for worshippers and participants across Bangladesh.