'Army to act strictly against disorder during Durga Puja'

The Bangladesh Army has warned of strict action to prevent any unrest during the Sharadiya Durga Puja. Lieutenant Colonel Kamrul Hasan, commander of the Fifteen East Bengal Mechanized of the Ninth Infantry Division, said the army will use its full magisterial authority against anyone attempting to create disorder.

The warning came during a coordination meeting at Kabaddi Stadium Camp in Dhaka, attended by priests, members of Puja committees, and representatives from Dhaka Metropolitan Police, RAB, Fire Service, and Ansar.

“Criminals, regardless of their affiliation, will not be spared,” Lt. Col. Hasan said. Volunteers, police, and Ansar personnel have been urged to remain vigilant outside temples.

Security measures will include screening outsiders before entry, CCTV monitoring, controlling parking around puja pandals, restricting small shops, and avoiding loud soundboxes during prayers.

Earlier, army personnel inspected puja pandals in Demra and Wari to ensure preparations and security measures were in place.