Dhaka: Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed today affirmed the government's commitment to ensuring a peaceful and orderly Biswa Ijtema, the second-largest Muslim congregation, set to take place in two phases from January 8-10 and January 15-17 at the Tongi Ijtema ground. "We are committed to hold the upcoming Biswa Ijtema in a peaceful and orderly manner," Ahmed stated during a press briefing after meeting with representatives of the Saad faction of Tabligh Jamaat at the Home Ministry.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the minister urged both factions of Tabligh Jamaat to resolve their differences through mutual understanding and conduct the Ijtema without any disruption. The meeting covered the Ijtema schedule, security arrangements, and other related issues. Ahmed mentioned that discussions had been held with representatives of the Zubair faction and subsequently with the Saad faction to gather their perspectives.
The two-phase World Ijtema has been scheduled for January 8-10 and January 15-17 at the Tongi Ijtema ground, considering the opinions of all concerned parties. The minister noted that both factions expressed interest in holding the Ijtema at the Tongi ground, despite a previous government agreement that the Saad faction would not hold the event there. The Saad faction opposed this decision during the meeting and requested organizing a separate one-phase Ijtema at the Tongi ground after the scheduled phases, either before Ramadan or around the end of November.
The government is seriously considering the proposal and plans to hold further discussions with both factions before making a final decision. The views of law enforcement agencies will also be considered to ensure public safety and maintain law and order. Regarding the potential arrival of Maulana Saad, Ahmed stated that the matter falls under the visa policy and the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Religious Affairs, with a decision to be made following relevant rules and policies.
Addressing questions about the country's overall law and order situation, the home minister reported a notable improvement compared to the past. He cited compiled police data indicating declines in crimes such as murder, abduction, and violence against women, attributing these improvements to the continued efforts of law enforcement agencies. Ahmed reiterated the government's commitment to public safety and stability.
Referring to a recent robbery incident resulting in the death of a female teacher in the capital, the minister highlighted the swift arrest of the prime suspect within 12 hours and the recovery of materials linked to the crime. He emphasized the active role of internal intelligence and monitoring mechanisms within law enforcement agencies. Any specific allegations of negligence or non-cooperation by force members will be investigated, and necessary actions will be taken.
The minister assured that the government is closely monitoring the law and order situation, aiming to strengthen public safety and stability. State Minister for Religious Affairs Mohammad Shamim Kaiser, senior officials from the Home and Religious Affairs ministries, and representatives of the Saad faction of Tabligh Jamaat attended the meeting. A similar meeting with the Zubair faction was held on August 18, 2026, to discuss the Biswa Ijtema schedule and security arrangements.