Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed informed Parliament on Tuesday that overall security has been ensured at the country’s international airports. He added that the Bangladesh Police has adopted various strategic plans to enhance security services at these locations.
Salahuddin made these remarks during a question-and-answer session of the first session of the 13th National Parliament, presided over by Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmed Bir Bikram. He was responding to a written query from Mohammad Fakhrul Islam, lawmaker for Noakhali-5 constituency.
According to Salahuddin, a multi-layered security system has been adopted to ensure effective protection. Current measures include the establishment of checkpoints at entry and exit points, alongside intensified police patrols within airport areas.
He noted that necessary steps are being taken to prevent sabotage based on intelligence reports, and security is being further improved through the exchange of information between the police, intelligence agencies, and airport authorities.
To prevent theft and mugging, police surveillance has been increased, supported by CCTV cameras and information technology. Salahuddin detailed that security is being reinforced through the use of modern equipment, advanced scanning machines, and body-worn cameras.
Additionally, technologies such as modern luggage systems and increased immigration counters have been introduced to improve passenger experience.
To specifically prevent the harassment of passengers, strict monitoring has been implemented and dedicated assistance desks have been launched. Furthermore, special training is being provided to personnel to handle terrorism, cyber security, and emergency situations.
Steps to curb harassment at police stations
In a separate response to a query from Shahjahan Chowdhury, MP for Chittagong-15, Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed highlighted that the government has initiated various measures to ensure the public does not face harassment while filing cases or General Diaries (GDs) at police stations.
The Minister stated that a key objective of the current government’s election manifesto is to ease the path for those seeking criminal justice by creating opportunities to file complaints through online methods.
To ensure close monitoring, there are plans to gradually bring the rooms of duty officers and the premises of all police stations across the country under CCTV surveillance.
Currently, online legal services for GD applications are being provided at all police stations nationwide, allowing citizens to file reports in a harassment-free environment without needing to visit the station in person.
If an allegation of a cognizable offence is received via the online GD software, the complainant is immediately sent an SMS requesting them to visit the station with detailed information to register a regular case.
