Risks remain but no threats centring Independence Day, Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations: Home secy

Although there are risks regarding the celebrations of Independence Day on 26 March and Eid-ul-Fitr, there are no specific threats to these two occasions, said Senior Secretary of home ministry Nasimul Gani today (16 March).

"Ramadan is going on. Independence Day on 26 March is approaching, and after that there will be the Eid vacation. This is why we are analysing if there are any threats regarding these events. Besides, we have discussed how to minimise dissatisfaction of the workers that usually persist prior to Eid with relevant stakeholders," Nasimul said after holding a meeting on controlling law and order and taking security measures on the occasion of Independence Day and Eid-ul-Fitr.

"We have talked with BGMEA, BKMEA officials to ensure timely payment of the salaries of the workers," the senior secretary added.

Replying to a question, Nasimul stated that they are thinking about granting leaves to the workers in phases.

"We have told the labour leaders so that workers get their salaries on time. We do not want the destruction of any asset [due to labour unrest]," Nasimul added.

He went on to say, "We have instructed the law enforcers to prevent extortion and snatching at the places where the people will travel during the vacations. We have already ensured security at shopping malls as the police commissioner had said."

Stating that there will be no parade during Independence Day this year too, Nasimul quoted the home adviser as saying that "the country is currently in a warlike state and the government is not in a mood to enjoy right now."

Replying to another question, secretary Nasimul also said the law enforcers will be fully prepared to prevent theft and mugging during the upcoming vacations.

"You have seen within a few days that police have become strong. We are working and not seeing any threats despite some risks," Nasimul said.