Govt to show no leniency over neutrality of law enforcers during polls: Home adviser

Home Affairs Adviser Lt Gen (retd) Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury has warned that the government will not show any leniency over the neutrality of law enforcement agencies while they perform duties during the upcoming national election and referendum.

Strict action would be taken against anyone involved in unethical practices during the election, including those who act out of greed, engage in wrongdoing, evade responsibility, or neglect their duties, he said while speaking as the chief guest at the "Bangladesh Coast Guard Medal Award Ceremony 2026," organised at the Coast Guard headquarters in Agargaon, Dhaka this morning (3 February).

"If any member of the Coast Guard or other law enforcement agencies is found to be involved in implementing the agenda of any individual, group, or political party, departmental action along with stringent legal measures will be taken against the concerned personnel," he added.

Highlighting the contributions of the Coast Guard, Jahangir Alam Chowdhury said the force has been working courageously to ensure security in coastal areas and inland waterways, prevent illegal fishing, curb arms and drug smuggling, human trafficking, robbery, and piracy. He also noted that the Coast Guard regularly conducts patrols and has successfully carried out rescue operations for distressed vessels and sailors.

He further said that by ensuring security in border river areas, the Coast Guard is playing a vital role not only in preventing human trafficking and arms and drug smuggling but also in ensuring regional maritime security. In recognition of these contributions, countries including the United States and Australia have praised the force and expressed interest in working jointly with it.

Referring to the 13th national election and referendum scheduled for 12 February, the home adviser said around 900,000 members of law enforcement agencies, including 3,585 Coast Guard personnel, have been deployed nationwide to ensure a free, fair, peaceful, and neutral election. As part of the deployment, 100 platoons have already been stationed in various districts of Barishal, Chattogram, and Khulna divisions.

Describing corruption as the biggest enemy of the state, he said corruption erodes state institutions from within and destroys public trust.

Responding to a question from journalists, Jahangir Alam Chowdhury said some incidents of violence have occurred in connection with the election, but the situation has not worsened. "Compared to previous national elections, the level of violence is much lower, and law enforcement agencies are continuing their operations," he said.

He added that most of the reported incidents of violence stemmed from internal conflicts and factionalism within political parties, which are relatively difficult for law enforcement agencies to control. "We are trying our best, but all concerned must exercise patience and remain vigilant," he said.

At the event, medals were awarded to 40 Coast Guard members for their outstanding contributions in the line of duty.

The ceremony was chaired by Coast Guard Director General Rear Admiral Md Ziaul Haque, while Senior Secretary of the Ministry of Home Affairs Nasimul Ghani was present as a special guest.