Dhaka: Bangladesh Police has issued a security advisory for all concerned, including worshipers, to ensure safe and peaceful celebrations of Durga Puja, the largest religious festival of the Hindu community. The Police Headquarters (PHQ) in a statement today asked authorities to take measures to defuse tension arising from rumours circulating on social media. It also advised taking time to verify the truth, as many reported incidents are ultimately proven to be false.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the PHQ urged authorities to arrange separate entry and exit routes for male and female visitors arriving at the puja mandaps. It recommended that visitors refrain from carrying any bag, pouch, or potala into the mandaps. The PHQ also suggested installing CCTV cameras and fire extinguishers in the puja mandaps and at archway gates of important mandaps.
Authorities were instructed to ensure adequate lighting in the mandaps and at idol immersion sites, and, if possible, arrange standby generators or charging lights. Volunteers should be appointed to help with mandap security. They must be provided with separate clothing, visible identity cards, and arm bands with the word “volunteer” written on them.
The PHQ also urged people to refrain from bursting fireworks or crackers during the puja. It emphasized maintaining communal harmony by respecting the religious sentiments of people of other faiths during the celebrations.