Dhaka: The Election Commission (EC) has requested the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) to enhance security measures around the EC secretariat as preparations for the forthcoming general election are underway. The EC conveyed this request through a letter addressed to the DMP Commissioner.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the letter was signed by Shahid Abdus Salam, Deputy Secretary and Chief Security Officer of the EC secretariat. The communication emphasized the necessity for 24-hour security around the secretariat, citing the ongoing preparations for the 13th national parliament election. The letter referenced a recent incident involving a cocktail explosion near the Election Commission’s sculpture, which occurred at approximately 11:10 p.m. on October 25.
The letter highlighted concerns regarding the security of ‘Nirbachan Bhaban’, noting that business activities in the vicinity from evening until midnight, particularly during holidays and after office hours, posed potential risks. It proposed the cessation of these activities and reinforced the need for heightened security in and around the ‘Nirbachan Bhaban’ area.
The EC’s communication called for the deployment of an adequate number of Special Branch (SB) police officers to ensure continuous security coverage for the EC. The letter stressed the importance of these measures in safeguarding the election preparations and maintaining security around the secretariat.