Home Affairs Adviser Expresses Deep Regret Over Journalist Murder in Gazipur

Lieutenant General (Retd.) Md. Jahangir Alam Chowdhury, Adviser to the Ministry of Home Affairs, has expressed profound sorrow over the public murder of a journalist in Gazipur. He remarked on the growing intolerance within society and the decline in collective intervention during incidents of wrongdoing.

Statements on Social Intolerance and Public Response

Speaking to journalists after a meeting of the Law and Order Core Committee on Sunday, 10 August, the adviser said:
“We, as a nation, have become very intolerant, lacking patience. Previously, if any objectionable incident occurred in society, everyone would rush to intervene. But nowadays, such incidents go unchallenged. People are too busy filming the event on their phones.”

He added, “Even when an incident happens in public, no one steps forward to stop it. Government forces are not always present immediately; they may arrive later. What occurred in Gazipur is deeply regrettable. No one could have imagined such an event would happen in our society, but it has. Those involved have been brought under the law’s jurisdiction. However, the life lost cannot be restored. Therefore, if we all become more conscious and patient, such incidents will cease. Almost all the perpetrators have been arrested, and we will ensure they receive due punishment.”

Public Charter and Awareness

On the subject of the Public Charter, he observed:
“The Public Charter stipulates that the public must receive justice, but gradually we seem to be forgetting this law. It would be better if you [the media] helped raise awareness among the public. Often, old videos circulate on various communication platforms, spreading fear. Some do this because they believe it earns money on YouTube. For instance, the recent incident in Sherpur involved a grandson filming while his grandmother was being killed—all for money.”

Recovery of Firearms at New Market

Regarding the firearms recovered in New Market, he explained:
“These are locally made weapons. Everyone must be aware of this issue. Those manufacturing such weapons will also be brought to justice. We will issue notices concerning lost firearms and reward informants. A committee will be formed soon, and details will be made public within a few days.”

Progress on Gazipur Journalist Murder Case

Concerning the Gazipur journalist murder investigation, the adviser revealed:
“The incident was revealed through video footage. We are striving to file the charge sheet within seven to fifteen days. Several more suspects remain at large.”

Election Security Measures

On election security, he stated:
“Ansar’s role is vital during elections. This time, the Presiding Officer will be accompanied by Ansar personnel armed with weapons to prevent attacks. Previously, weapons were held by two personnel; this time, three will be armed. Additionally, the police, Border Guards Bangladesh (BGB), and the army will also perform their duties armed.”

Additional Incident in Gazipur

Concluding, he recounted another tragic event in Gazipur:
“In a separate incident, a man was killed with a brick in front of police officers. The Commissioner has stated that the police are still traumatised. Even when three people attack one person, normal policing is not occurring as it should.”

Summary Table: Key Points from the Adviser’s Comments