3 platoons of BGB deployed in Habiganj to prevent unrest

The Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) has been deployed in Habiganj amid fears of a deteriorating law and order situation following counter-programmes by the BNP and the National Citizen Party (NCP). Three platoons of the BGB were deployed in the district on Wednesday (July 29) to prevent any unrest, according to BGB headquarters' Media and Public Relations Officer Md Shariful Islam.

Earlier, on the same day, the Deputy Commissioner and District Magistrate Dr G M Sarfaraz imposed Section 144 in the Habiganj municipal area, citing similar concerns. The order came after the NCP called for a protest rally and road meeting in the municipal area on the same day and at the same venue, while the Habiganj Sadar Upazila and municipal BNP and district Chhatra Dal announced a counter-protest rally and sit-in programme at the same time. The order noted that the decision was taken due to the possibility of large gatherings of leaders and activists from both sides and the prevailing tension that could lead to clashes and loss of life.

Under Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898, the order prohibits gatherings of five or more people, public meetings, use of microphones, processions, slogans, picketing and any other activities that could disrupt law and order in the Habiganj municipal area until further notice.

The NCP had called for protests across the country following the attack on its leaders, with Wednesday's programme in Habiganj being part of that. The local BNP and Chhatra Dal took a counter-position at the same time, complicating the situation.