Md. Jahangir Alam Chowdhury, the Home Adviser, has announced that law enforcement personnel will be deployed nationwide at Durga Puja pandals starting Wednesday, 24 September.

He made the statement on Sunday (21 September) during a briefing at the Secretariat following a meeting of the Law and Order Committee.

Key Points from the Briefing

• Deployment for Puja Pandals:
  The Home Adviser stated that law enforcement agencies will be stationed at puja pandals across the country from 24 September. This move aims to ensure the safety and security of worshippers and property during the festival.
• Preventive Measures:
  While acknowledging incidents of idol vandalism in various locations, he assured that law enforcement is taking strict action against such activities. Additionally, volunteers from the puja committees will maintain vigilance at the pandals prior to official deployment.
• Election Preparedness:
  Responding to questions about the upcoming national election, he said: “The forthcoming national election will be peaceful and festive. Although minor incidents may occur, necessary steps will be taken to prevent them.”
• Crackdown on Drug and Fertiliser Smuggling:
  Md. Jahangir Alam Chowdhury also highlighted that drug smuggling from Myanmar and illegal fertiliser exports from the country remain a concern. Law enforcement agencies are taking stricter action, and more offenders are being apprehended compared to before.

Summary of Measures

The Home Adviser emphasised that these measures are part of the government’s broader commitment to maintain law and order, protect cultural festivities, and curb criminal activity nationwide.