Dhaka: Inspector General of Police (IGP) Baharul Alam today announced measures to prevent any untoward incidents during the celebrations of Durga Puja, the largest religious festival of the Hindu community. 'Our main goal is to ensure that religious harmony remains intact and no untoward incident takes place,' he stated at a press conference held at the Police Headquarters.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Police Chief informed that strict intelligence surveillance has been operational at puja mandaps, temples, and their surrounding areas since September 1 to ensure safe, peaceful, and festive celebrations of Durga Puja. This year, pujas are being held at 33,355 mandaps across the country as per the Home Ministry. 'Police along with other law enforcement agencies are on the highest alert to ensure security across the country,' he said.
In response to a query, the IGP mentioned that 49 minor untoward incidents have been reported so far. He noted that 15 cases have been filed in connection with these incidents, resulting in the arrest of 19 individuals. Some of the accused have provided confessional statements before the courts. An investigation is underway to identify those responsible for these incidents.
Alam emphasized that the police's cyber unit is conducting special surveillance to prevent the spread of rumors regarding Durga Puja. 'Necessary legal action will be taken if anyone is found spreading rumors centering Durga Puja,' he assured.
The police chief highlighted that Bangladesh is experiencing a transitional period with upcoming elections and stressed the vigilance being maintained to ensure religious harmony is not disrupted. 'All-out preparations have been made by the police to ensure security, especially since the national elections are ahead. Special surveillance is being carried out on the overall situation,' he added.
Referring to a recent vandalism incident in Gazipur, the IGP described such incidents as isolated and possibly due to personal grievances but assured that these issues are being taken seriously. He promised strict action if any police personnel are found involved in these incidents.
In addressing the investigation into the July Uprising cases, the IGP revealed that charge sheets have been filed in 55 cases so far, involving 1,941 people in 18 murder cases and 2,185 others in 37 additional cases. He noted that over 1,700 cases have been filed for incidents occurring in July and August, with ongoing investigations. New police officers, along with experienced personnel, are handling the investigations.
Responding to concerns about false accusations, the IGP guaranteed that names of uninvolved individuals will be removed from cases, and any police officers implicated in such misconduct will face strict action.
Regarding a recent rape incident in Khagrachhari, the IGP reported the swift arrest of a suspect and the filing of a case following the victim's father's identification of those involved. He affirmed that the police have not neglected their duties and are actively working to identify and apprehend the remaining suspects. Despite efforts to spread tension and confusion, he assured that the investigation is progressing.
Several additional IGs, including AKM Awlad Hossain, Md. Akram Hossain, Abu Naser Mohammed Khaled, Khondaker Rafiqul Islam, Mosleh Uddin Ahmed, and Sardar Nurul Amin, were present at the press conference.