Chattogram Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Zahidul Islam Mian has called for coordinated security measures to ensure people of all communities can celebrate Durga Puja safely, warning that rumours and misinformation could turn isolated incidents into unrest and damage Bangladesh’s image of communal harmony.
Speaking at a preparatory meeting on security and law and order at Chattogram Circuit House on Monday, Zahid urged the administration, law enforcement agencies, puja committees and volunteers to work closely throughout the festival, from the making and transportation of idols to their immersion. Officials also outlined measures including social-media monitoring, CCTV coverage, volunteer deployment, adequate lighting and traffic management.
“We want to show the world that every citizen, every community and every ethnic group in this country is safe. They live safely and celebrate their festivals safely,” Zahid said.
Chattogram Superintendent of Police Md Masud Alam said the district, excluding the metropolitan area, has 2,287 permanent and temporary puja mandaps. Idols from around 1,800 mandaps are expected to be taken out for immersion.
Both Zahid and Masud identified rumours and misinformation circulating on social media as a major concern ahead of the festival.
Even a minor incident could be exaggerated online to create tension, Zahid said, adding that cyber units would monitor and counter misinformation. The administration said in a press release that organisers and law enforcement agencies had been asked to maintain close coordination during the celebrations.
Masud urged puja committees to quickly provide verified information whenever rumours or misleading claims emerge.
As part of the security preparations, Zahid advised organisers to install CCTV cameras at mandaps wherever possible and prepare duty rosters for volunteers. Volunteers should wear distinctive vests or armbands so they can be easily identified.
Masud asked puja committees to submit the names and phone numbers of volunteers to their respective police stations. He also urged organisers to settle any disputes involving mandap committees or land before the festival begins.
Zahid stressed the need to maintain security throughout the celebrations, including during the making, transportation and immersion of idols.
He advised organisers, wherever possible, to transport idols during daylight hours and complete immersion before sunset.
The meeting was told that adequate lighting and security should be provided at immersion points, while traffic management should be strengthened to keep access routes clear.
Organisers were also asked to ensure that vehicles used in immersion processions are roadworthy and that drivers are physically fit.
“We do not want any sorrow to cast a shadow over the joy of the festival. We want everything to take place in a festive atmosphere,” Zahid said.
The deputy commissioner also called for the religious significance and cultural traditions of Durga Puja to be preserved and passed on to younger generations.
“We need to broaden our minds. If we cannot do that, what will the next generation learn from us?” he said.
Zahid assured organisers of the government’s full cooperation in ensuring a peaceful and festive Durga Puja.
Officials from the district administration and police, along with representatives of Bangladesh Puja Udjapan Parishad, Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council and other organisations, attended the meeting.
