Heightened security, preparations underway at National Memorial ahead of Tarique's visit

Preparations along with heightened security measures is in progress at the National Memorial in Savar ahead of the visit of BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman.

Dhaka district police officials said more than 1,000 police personnel will be deployed tomorrow (26 December) as part of the security arrangement surrounding the BNP leader's visit.

According to the BNP Media Cell, after offering Jumma prayers tomorrow, Tarique Rahman is scheduled to pay homage at the grave of Ziaur Rahman. He will later visit the National Memorial in Savar to place wreaths in memory of the martyrs of the Liberation War.

However, officials of the Public Works Department (PWD) responsible for the National Memorial said they have not yet received any official notification regarding his visit. 

Tarique Rahman returns home after 17 years

Anwar Hossain Khan, in-charge of the National Memorial and sub-assistant engineer of the Savar PWD, told The Business Standard that they learned about the planned visit through media reports.

"We came to know from the media that he may visit the National Memorial tomorrow," he said. "As part of routine preparations, cleaning work has already begun and will continue until tomorrow noon."

He added, "From this afternoon, extra cleaning measures have been taken, including ensuring the grounds, drains and lake remain clean, enhancing visible aesthetics, and removing any waste from surrounding areas."

A make-or-break return

"Even on regular days the memorial is kept prepared, but additional cleanliness measures are being carried out for tomorrow," Anwar said, noting that Dhaka district police officials also visited the site to assess public security arrangements.

Anu further said no decision has yet been taken on whether general visitors will be restricted from entering the National Memorial during Tarique Rahman's visit.

When contacted, Md Arafatul Islam, Additional Superintendent of Police (crime and operations), told TBS that necessary security arrangements are being made. "We do not plan to completely shut it down, but if required, we will take appropriate measures."

He added that special preparations have been taken, keeping security concerns in mind.

"There will be security for everyone and Tarique Rahman himself so that all can pay their respects peacefully and return safely to Dhaka," he said, confirming that more than 1,000 police personnel will be deployed as part of the security operation.

Earlier this morning, Tarique Rahman attended a reception rally on the 300 Feet Road in Dhaka's Purbachal after returning to Bangladesh following more than 17 years in exile.