Terming the police personnel who have failed to join their duties after August 5, 2024 political changeover as criminals, Home Affairs Adviser Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury on Tuesday said they will be considered as 'criminals' and brought under the law.
At a press briefing after the meeting of the Law and Order Committee held at the Ministry conference room, the Adviser made the remark.
He also assured that the interim government is likely to float notifications inviting applications for recruiting forces in police, Ansar, and BGB.
"Those who have not yet joined after August 5 in their positions will not be considered as part of the police force. Instead, they will be considered as criminals. They are no more in the police service. We have already decided to recruit new personnel for Ansar, police, and BGB units," the Adviser said, confirming that a notification for the recruitment of sub-inspectors is expected to be issued within the next few days.
On the topic of police reform, which began on Tuesday, the Jahangir Alam clarified, "The work is being handled by a separate committee. The committee will submit its report, based on which the necessary reforms will be implemented."
In response to a query regarding deaths under police or DB custody or during the drives, the Adviser said, "Such incidents could have taken place during the drives. It cannot be compared with the previous incidents."
The Adviser also highlighted that preparations are underway to ensure that this year's Durga Puja is celebrated safely. "We have taken every possible step to make sure the Durga Puja goes off without any disruptions. We are also working on improving the overall law and order situation, and we expect further improvements in the coming days," he said.
The meeting also discussed various issues including security at industrial zones like Ashulia, special drives against weapons recovery, and efforts to combat drug trade.
Adviser Jahangir noted that special attention is being given to safeguarding garment factories and religious shrines across the country.
When asked about the possibility of extending the Durga Puja holiday to three days, he said, "This matter does not fall within my purview, and I have never advocated for it."
Addressing the ongoing issues in the Chittagong Hill Tracts, Jahangir Alam said that despite the peace accord, some groups like the UPDF have not surrendered weapons, unlike the JSS.
He acknowledged internal conflicts between these groups and emphasized the need for measures to ensure peaceful coexistence in the region. He also highlighted the importance of preventing the influx of weapons and external training into the area, stating that efforts are being made to address these concerns.
