Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed on Tuesday said currently there is no militant activity in Bangladesh, dismissing concerns over the presence of such groups. He claimed that the term had previously been used during the "fascist era" for political gain.
"The term 'militancy' is no longer recognised by us-there is no such activity in our country at present,"
he said.
Speaking to reporters at the Bangladesh Coast Guard headquarters after a programme marking its 31st founding anniversary this afternoon, he said, "I do not recognise that term (militancy). There is no such activity in our country."
Some extremist groups exist in every country, and there may be some radical or fundamental political forces as well-these are normal, he said.
There are always some extremist groups, radical forces or fundamentalist political groups around the world -- we are familiar with that," he said. The minister further said the term "militancy" had been used during the "fascist era" for political purposes.
However, he said they will continue to operate in the future if required by district magistrates or the government. On reports regarding a special alert notice issued by police headquarters, he clarified that no such directive had been issued by the government.
"However, around national days or key installations, security measures are always strengthened following standard operating procedures, and support from different forces is taken. This was the case in the past, remains so now, and will continue in the future," he said.
Highlighting the activities of the Coast Guard, he said there are plans to expand operations not only in coastal areas but also across inland waterways. "Expansion into haor regions is also under consideration," he said.
He recalled that the Coast Guard Act was enacted in 1995 under the initiative of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia. Although the force has expanded since then, he believes it is still not sufficient.
The minister further announced that there is a policy decision to gradually increase the Coast Guard's personnel from around 5,000 to 10,000. Necessary logistics, modern equipment, helicopters, housing facilities, and training opportunities will also be enhanced.
Stressing the need to strengthen the Coast Guard to maintain law and order in coastal regions, he said, "As criminals are becoming more capable with the use of technology, law enforcement agencies must also remain modern and well-prepared."
