Dhaka: Home Adviser Lt Gen (retd) Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury announced today that law enforcement agencies will be strategically deployed for the upcoming national election in February, based on a risk assessment of polling centres.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Home Adviser conveyed this information to journalists following a Core Committee meeting on law and order at the home ministry in the Bangladesh Secretariat. Jahangir highlighted that the meeting concentrated on strategies for maintaining law and order during the national election, encompassing issues like drug peddling, border security, recovering stolen firearms, and managing provocative social media content.
Jahangir emphasized that the deployment of law enforcers would be determined by the security situation at each polling centre, though he did not disclose the number of centres deemed risky. Additionally, discussions were held about acquiring body-worn cameras for law enforcement, with Jahangir stating that purchases would be based on necessity.
Regarding border security, Jahangir mentioned that all relevant agencies have been directed to prevent any intrusion into Bangladesh during the election period. Addressing allegations of political influence in the transfer of Superintendents of Police, he stated that no such complaints had been made to him.
On the implementation of recommendations from the 2009 BDR carnage investigation commission, Jahangir noted that he had yet to review the report but affirmed the need to implement the commission's recommendations. Addressing potential security concerns surrounding BNP Acting Chairperson Tarique Rahman's return, he assured that the government is committed to ensuring safety for everyone and is prepared to provide special security arrangements where necessary.
The Home Ministry remains resolute in its commitment to safeguarding all citizens, ensuring a secure environment for the upcoming elections.