Police have heightened security measures across the country amid fears of a possible deterioration in the law-and-order situation surrounding the founding anniversary of the banned Awami League on June 23.
According to intelligence reports, Awami League leaders and activists may attempt to observe the anniversary by hoisting party flags at offices and organising processions carrying banners in districts and metropolitan areas.
Police Headquarters has warned that such programmes could trigger clashes with activists of other political groups, particularly the National Citizen Party (NCP) and anti-discrimination student groups.
In response, all police units have been instructed to adopt necessary precautionary and security measures.
A letter issued by Police Headquarters on Thursday and signed by DIG (Confidential) Md Kamrul Ahsan said Awami League supporters might hold rallies and raise flags at party offices in observance of the anniversary.
The letter warned that such activities could create tensions and lead to confrontations with rival political activists. It also noted that supporters of the banned party could become hostile towards law enforcement personnel if attempts are made to prevent their activities.
Considering the significance of the issue, all concerned authorities have been directed to remain vigilant and strengthen security arrangements.
Metropolitan police commissioners, range DIGs and the Additional DIG (Operations) at Police Headquarters have been instructed to stay alert and ensure adequate security measures.
The warning comes amid a series of incidents linked to activities carried out in the name of the banned party. On Thursday, crude explosives were reportedly detonated during a flash procession by Awami League supporters in Mohakhali, while three people were detained in connection with the incident.
A day earlier, the Awami League's youth wing, Jubo League, reportedly organised a procession in front of Ganabhaban.
Police said they are closely monitoring the situation to ensure that activities by any banned political organisation do not disrupt public safety. Additional surveillance has also been deployed at the field level to prevent possible sabotage and violence.
Responding to questions from journalists at a press conference on Friday, Dhaka Metropolitan Police Additional Commissioner (Crime and Operations) S N Md Nazrul Islam said police were maintaining a heightened state of alert ahead of the anniversary.
"June 23 marks the founding anniversary of a banned political party. We are maintaining a heightened state of alert over the matter. Necessary security measures have been taken, as in the past, to ensure public safety. Security checkpoints remain active at various locations and these operations will continue," he said.
Following mass protests, former Prime Minister and Awami League President Sheikh Hasina left the country for India on August 5, 2024.
After the formation of the interim government three days later, a number of senior Awami League leaders, including ministers, state ministers, influential lawmakers and top party figures, were arrested. Several leaders of allied parties within the Awami League-led alliance were also detained.
Most remaining senior leaders of the Awami League are reportedly in hiding, leaving the party largely absent from regular political activities.
