No security threat for Pahela Baishakh celebrations, says Home Adviser
Speaking to the press after a meeting at the Secretariat today (8 April) regarding the law and order arrangements for the Bengali New Year 1432 celebrations, the adviser reassured the public that there is no security threat
There are no security threats surrounding the celebration of Pahela Baishakh, said Home Affairs Adviser Lieutenant General (Retd) Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury.
Speaking to the press after a meeting at the Secretariat today (8 April) regarding the law and order arrangements for the Bengali New Year 1432 celebrations, the adviser reassured the public that there is no security threat.
"There's no security threat whatsoever," the adviser confirmed when asked about any security risks in connection with the celebrations.
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"This year, Pahela Baishakh will be celebrated on a large scale. In line with that, additional security measures have been implemented. Everything necessary is being done to ensure that security is not compromised."
The adviser further commented on the security during the traditional procession, stating that there would be no overzealous security measures around the procession.
"Who would be at the front and back? It's all Bangladeshis. The police force is made up of Bangladeshis as well. If everyone else can participate in the procession, why can't our police force join it? They can join without any issues," he said.
"The Ministry of Culture is organising the entire event, and they will decide who will be involved."
When asked about his satisfaction with law and order during the eight months of the interim government, the adviser responded, "As satisfied as you are, I am equally satisfied."
Regarding the vandalism at various foreign company shops, including Bata, he stated, "Ensuring security across the country is my responsibility. Action will be taken against those responsible for these incidents."
Cultural Affairs Adviser Mostafa Sarwar Farooki, who was also present at the meeting, mentioned that the name of the procession for Pahela Baishakh, 'Mongol Shovajatra,' would be decided by Dhaka University.
"The decision will be made on 10 April. However, there was no discussion about changing the name today. Since Dhaka University is organising the event, they will make the final decision," he added.
Farooki also informed that this year's celebrations would see a large turnout, with 26 different ethnic groups, alongside the Bengali community, participating in the festivities.
