No security risks during this year’s Durga Puja: Home Adviser

Lieutenant General (Retd.) Md. Jahangir Alam Chowdhury, Adviser to the Ministry of Home Affairs, has assured that there will be no security risks during this year’s Sharadiya Durga Puja celebrations.

Speaking after inspecting the Puja mandap of the Ramakrishna Mission in Missionpara, Narayanganj, on Monday morning, the adviser expressed confidence that the festival will be marked by greater communal harmony and a vibrant festive atmosphere compared to previous years.

“We have taken extensive security measures to ensure a safe and peaceful Puja. This year, the bond of communal harmony will be stronger than ever,” he said.

Lt. Gen. (Retd.) Chowdhury also emphasized that adequate security arrangements have been made for 33,000 Durga Puja mandaps nationwide. Ansar, Police, Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), and Army personnel will be deployed to maintain order.

During his visit, the Adviser reviewed overall security preparations and engaged with event organizers. Accompanying him were key officials including DIG Rezaul Karim Mallik of Dhaka Range, Narayanganj District Commissioner Zahidul Islam Mia, Police Superintendent Mohammad Jasim Uddin, RAB-11 Commander Lt. Col. H.M. Sajjad Hossain, and local Puja committee leaders.

Highlighting the security measures in Narayanganj, he said, “There is no concern regarding communal tensions here. CCTV cameras have been installed in all mandaps, and security will be tight throughout the festival.”

The Adviser further noted that Narayanganj has a long history of communal harmony, which has improved this year. Each Puja committee will appoint seven volunteers and eight Ansar members per pandal to assist with security, alongside personnel from police, RAB, and the military.

The Sharadiya Durga Puja celebrations are expected to proceed smoothly and joyously under these comprehensive security arrangements.