Heightened Security Surrounds Chhayanaut Amid Renewed Attack Fears

Heightened security measures have been put in place around Chhayanaut, one of Bangladesh’s most respected and long-standing institutions dedicated to Bengali cultural practice, amid renewed fears of possible attacks. Located in Dhaka’s Dhanmondi area, the organisation has recently become the focus of serious security concerns following an incident of vandalism, prompting law enforcement agencies to adopt a strict and highly visible security posture to prevent any further untoward developments.

On Friday, 19 December, a visit to the Chhayanaut premises revealed a noticeably stronger police presence than on an ordinary day. Officers were seen stationed at the main entrance of the building, while patrol teams continuously monitored surrounding roads and alleyways. Additional surveillance measures were also put in place to closely observe any suspicious movement in the area. Local residents reported that the increased security served as a clear indication of the seriousness with which the authorities are treating the situation.

According to police sources, the decision to reinforce security was taken to ensure that no further attacks, acts of vandalism, or disorderly incidents occur at or around Chhayanaut. Given the organisation’s cultural significance and the sensitivity of recent events, the matter is being handled with the utmost priority. Law enforcement officials have confirmed that the entire area remains under close observation, with both uniformed and plainclothes personnel deployed as part of a comprehensive precautionary plan.

The heightened alert follows an incident on Thursday night, when Chhayanaut’s building was reportedly attacked and vandalised, causing damage to parts of the structure and leaving members of the organisation deeply shaken. In the aftermath of the incident, Chhayanaut members arrived early on Friday morning to begin cleaning the premises and assessing the extent of the damage. However, amid growing anxiety over the possibility of further unrest, members were seen leaving the building before Friday prayers as a precautionary step.

Several members of Chhayanaut have expressed concerns that another attack could take place after Jummah prayers, a fear shaped by past experiences and the tense atmosphere following the earlier incident. In light of these concerns, the decision was taken to temporarily vacate the building to minimise any risk to personal safety and avoid potential casualties in the event of renewed violence.

Speaking to the media, Shah Mostafa Tarikuzzaman, Assistant Commissioner of Police for the Dhanmondi Zone under the Ramna Division, stated that security had been strengthened in all areas of the capital where incidents were reported on Thursday night, with particular attention given to Chhayanaut. He confirmed that additional police personnel had been deployed and that regular patrols were being maintained throughout the area.

He further emphasised that Chhayanaut represents an important symbol of Bengali culture and heritage, and ensuring its safety is a responsibility the police take seriously. The authorities, he assured, remain on high alert to prevent any form of disturbance and are confident that the situation is currently under control.