Home Adviser reaffirms peace, security ahead of polls
Staff Reporter :
Home Adviser Lieutenant General (Retd) Md. Jahangir Alam Chowdhury today reaffirmed the interim government’s strong commitment to ensuring peace, public order, and security in the lead-up to the 13th national elections.
Speaking at a press briefing following the 19th meeting of the Advisory Council Committee on Law and Order, held at the Ministry of Home Affairs in the Bangladesh Secretariat, Jahangir emphasised that maintaining stability would be the highest priority during the election period.
“We are firmly committed to maintaining peace and public order. The highest priority has been given to keeping the law and order situation stable and undisrupted, particularly in view of the forthcoming elections,” said Jahangir.
He outlined a series of measures, including heightened vigilance and close coordination among all law enforcement agencies, to ensure a secure environment for both citizens and voters.
“Strict measures will be enforced during political programs and election campaigns, and any attempt to sabotage the polls will be dealt with firmly,” he added. The Home Adviser reiterated that the elections will take place as scheduled, warning that there would be no leniency for activities that disrupt the electoral process.
“Law enforcement agencies will be empowered to enter any location, including polling centres, at any time to prevent disorder or election-related violence,” Jahangir said.
Jahangir also urged political parties to remain cautious, warning against infiltration by saboteurs or “fascist agents” disguised as collaborators, and encouraged citizens to cooperate with the election code of conduct.
In his remarks, the Home Adviser highlighted the strengthening of nationwide intelligence surveillance and enhanced coordination among security forces.
“Training of election-related personnel is ongoing at all levels to ensure effective field operations,” he explained. The meeting also reviewed the overall law and order situation, election security preparations, and progress in major criminal cases.
In particular, Operation Devil Hunt Phase-2, launched on December 13, 2025, has led to the arrest of over 33,800 individuals, with authorities recovering illegal firearms, explosives, and narcotics.
On the subject of the July uprising, Jahangir confirmed that the charge sheet for the murder of Sharif Osman bin Hadi, a prominent figure in the protests, would be submitted on January 7, 2026.
“So far, 11 people have been arrested, and the case will be transferred to a speedy trial tribunal to ensure justice within the tenure of the interim government,” he added.
Jahangir also emphasized the government’s zero-tolerance policy toward communal violence and social media propaganda, urging the public to remain vigilant against rumors and provocative statements.
In light of the ongoing cold wave and dense fog in many regions, the Home Adviser advised drivers to exercise extra caution to prevent road accidents during the winter season.