Govt issues guidelines to ensure law and order during Durga Puja

Ahead of the upcoming Sharadiya Durga Puja celebrations, the interim government has issued a set of directives to maintain law and order across the country. 

These directives were released on Wednesday via an official memorandum signed by Md. Zahirul Haque, Senior Assistant Secretary of Political-2 branch of the Public Security Division, Ministry of Home Affairs. 

The guidelines are based on decisions taken at the second meeting of the Law and Order Advisory Council, chaired by the Home Affairs Advisor on October 1.

Key Directives for Durga Puja 2024:

1. Law enforcement deployment: To maintain law and order, visible patrols by police, Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), and Ansar and Village Defense Party (VDP) forces will be increased, along with enhanced intelligence surveillance. Armed forces deployed for order maintenance will provide additional support as needed.

2. Preparedness against unwanted incidents: Preparations must be made to prevent any untoward incidents, and effective measures must be taken immediately in coordination with all relevant parties should any unexpected situations arise.

3. Inspection of Puja pandals: Local administration and law enforcement agencies must inspect the puja pandals (temporary structures) to ensure safety.

4. Vigilance on social media: Authorities have been advised to remain vigilant against objectionable or inflammatory statements on social media that could incite tensions or hurt religious sentiments.

5. Volunteer appointment: Puja celebration committees are required to appoint sufficient volunteers and guards to monitor the puja pandals round the clock, with at least three on duty during the day and four at night.

6. CCTV installation: CCTV cameras must be installed at each puja pandal to enhance security.

7. Adequate deployment of forces: Adequate numbers of police personnel, Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), Ansar and VDP, RAB, and other forces must be deployed throughout the celebrations.

8. Formation of monitoring committees: Monitoring committees comprising respected individuals and students from various sectors of society must be formed to ensure the security of the puja pandals.

These committees should include members from the Hindu community as well as local officials. Deputy Commissioners and Upazila Nirbahi Officers will be responsible for forming these committees.

These directives aim to ensure a peaceful and secure environment for the Sharadiya Durga Puja 2024 celebrations, which hold cultural and religious significance for the Hindu community in Bangladesh.