With Durga Puja set to be celebrated from October 9 to 13 in Bangladesh, there is heightened concern over potential unrest prompting the interim government to go all out with security measures to ensure Hindu community’s protection. Durga Puja is one of the most significant festivals for Hindus, and its celebration in Bangladesh has often been marred by violence and unrest. The recent regime change has raised concerns as the country is seeing a dramatic increase in violence against Hindus since the transition of power.
The interim government has pledged to take necessary measures to ensure peaceful celebrations. Army Chief General Wakar-uz-Zaman gave an assurance during his visit to the Dhakeshwari Temple in Dhaka, where he reviewed the security arrangements in place for the festival.
General Wakar-uz-Zaman emphasized that the Bangladesh Army, following the interim government’s directives, has implemented extensive measures to maintain law and order during the Durga Puja celebrations. “The army is deployed in districts across the country to ensure the security of places of worship,” he stated, highlighting the army’s commitment to safeguarding the festivities.
Inspector General of Police (IGP) Md Mainul Islam also outlined a robust security plan during a press briefing at the Dhakeshwari Temple. He assured that the Bangladesh Police, along with other law enforcement agencies, are working diligently to create a peaceful and joyous environment for the celebrations. “All puja mandaps will celebrate the festival in a peaceful and joyous atmosphere, with religious enthusiasm,” he said.
The IGP detailed a comprehensive three-tier security plan, which includes increased patrols, heightened security measures, and the deployment of Ansar and BGB personnel at key puja mandaps. Additionally, the Coast Guard and specialized police units are monitoring coastal and naval regions to ensure overall safety.
Extensive Security Measures
According to Bangladesh’s government data, Durga Puja will be celebrated in 32,666 temples and makeshift puja mandaps across the country this year. To ensure security, over two lakh members of Ansar and VDP will be deployed. The Bangladesh Puja Udjapan Parishad (BPUP) President, Basudeb Dhar, confirmed the government’s commitment to stringent security measures, involving the Bangladesh Army, Police, RAB, BGB, Coast Guard, River Police, and Ansar.
The home ministry has issued directives for field administration and law enforcement agencies to ensure a peaceful celebration. Cyberspace monitoring is also in place to prevent the spread of any misinformation or rumors on the internet. SWAT, bomb disposal units, RAB helicopters, and striking forces will be ready to respond to any untoward situations.
According to Bangladesh’s media channels, key temples and makeshift puja pavilions will have archways and metal detectors installed at their entrances. If necessary, a dog squad will be on duty. Every law enforcement unit will work in a coordinated manner to ensure security.
Safety Suggestions for Devotees
The Bangladesh Police have provided safety suggestions to devotees, including staying alert to prevent any disruption of religious harmony and social peace through rumors on social media. Separate entrances and exit points for male and female visitors, restrictions on carrying bags and packets into puja pavilions, and the installation of CCTV cameras and fire extinguishers are among the measures advised. Volunteers, identifiable by their clothing, identity cards, and armbands, will also be deployed for security.
The five-day Durga Puja festival will begin on October 9 with Maha Shashthi rituals and conclude on October 13 with Bijoya Dashami. The coordinated efforts of the Bangladesh Army, Police, and other law enforcement agencies aim to ensure a peaceful and joyous festival for all.
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