Dhaka: Home Affairs Adviser Lt. Gen. Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury (retd.) emphasized the necessity of providing diverse training to Bangladesh Ansar and VDP personnel to enhance their efficiency in handling crises. The adviser highlighted the crucial role that Ansar personnel play during national emergencies and disasters. Their responsibilities include maintaining law and order, performing electoral duties, and protecting key point installations. Jahangir stressed that improved and varied training is essential for these duties.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Jahangir made these statements while addressing journalists following a meeting with senior officers of the force at the Bangladesh Ansar and Village Defense Party (VDP) Headquarters in Khilgaon, Dhaka. He noted that the current strength of Ansar and VDP members is approximately 6.1 million, and plans are underway to provide them with further training for socio-economic development. The training programs are set to diversify, enabling the personnel to acquire skills in various work-oriented trades, including basic weapons training.
Jahangir elaborated that such training would not only prepare the force for national crises but also aid in self-employment opportunities for its members. He acknowledged the existence of certain gaps in facilities and benefits for Ansar personnel and assured that efforts are being made to address these issues.
In response to inquiries about police misconduct during the July-August mass uprising, Jahangir confirmed that investigations are underway and that appropriate actions will be taken against the involved police personnel. He also expressed gratitude to journalists for countering Indian media propaganda through accurate reporting, attributing the cessation of such propaganda to their efforts.
The meeting was attended by Bangladesh Ansar and VDP Director General Major General Abdul Motaleb Sazzad Mahmud and other senior officers of the force.