Lieutenant General (Retd.) Md. Jahangir Alam Chowdhury, Adviser to the Ministry of Home Affairs, has announced that over 100,000 troops will be deployed for the 13th National Parliamentary Election. In addition, personnel from the Navy, Air Force, and other security agencies will also be on duty to ensure a secure election.
Speaking to reporters on Wednesday (24 September) after a meeting with district commissioners, law enforcement officials, and representatives of various departments at the Chittagong Circuit House, he said, “The people are the true power in an election. When the public is engaged and election-focused, no one can stop it. Preparations are underway for the February polls, and law enforcement agencies will be fully equipped for the task.”
He added that the upcoming Durga Puja will be celebrated in a peaceful and festive environment with law enforcement maintaining order.
Regarding election preparedness, he said, “The election does not rely solely on law enforcement; it depends on the people. Cooperation among political parties is a positive sign. The Election Commission, its rules, and the media also play a vital role. Training for personnel has already begun, and the number of security forces has been increased. Currently, around 30,000 troops are deployed, which will rise to 100,000 during the election. The Navy, Air Force, Border Guard, Coast Guard, and Ansar will all be involved.”
On concerns about illegal weapons possibly affecting the polls, he said, “Police operations have successfully recovered many arms. Some remain outside, but we expect to recover them before the election.”
Asked about the recent banned Chhatra League marches, the adviser said, “A march took place in Dhaka today. We are ensuring legal action against the participants, and bail is being carefully monitored. During the election, marches may increase, but small-scale actions like these will not happen freely.”
Regarding Durga Puja, he added, “We expect this year’s Durga Puja to be peaceful and festive. No major problems are anticipated. As a religious occasion, it is important to maintain its sanctity, and we request cooperation from people of all communities to ensure this.”
On the Rohingya issue, he said, “Bangladesh faces no threat from the Rohingya. Our goal is to repatriate them to their country as soon as possible, which will resolve the situation promptly.”
