Strict action will be taken against anyone involved in creating disruptions during Durga Puja celebrations or engaging in criminal activities at puja mandaps, warned BNP Joint Secretary General and party’s Durga Puja Observation Committee Convener Khairul Kabir Khokon.
He said no offender’s political party identity will be considered.
Khokon made these remarks at a press conference held at BNP central office in Naya Paltan, Dhaka, on Tuesday, following a meeting.
“Our prime minister has said a criminal has no party identity. Strict and tough action will be taken against those involved in these crimes, especially those who create disruptions at puja mandaps or during Puja celebrations, whoever they may be,” Khokon said.
Warning potential troublemakers, he added, “Whether you call them fascists or anyone else, if anyone is thinking of such activities, we are warning them.”
To ensure the peaceful celebration of Durga Puja, BNP will form observation committees across the country. Formed at district, upazila, municipality, ward, and union levels, these committees will include party leaders and activists alongside local Hindu community representatives and members of puja celebration committees.
BNP leaders and activists will work in co-ordination with the local administration, district commissioners, superintendents of police, and police station officials to ensure security during Puja.
In addition, a central monitoring cell will be set up, and party leaders will visit various puja mandaps.
Regarding security measures at puja mandaps, Khokon said generators must be kept ready in case of power outages, while emphasis has been laid on installing CCTV cameras to prevent unwanted incidents.
He also warned against the spread of fake news and videos using artificial intelligence (AI) on social media, urging the public not to react without verifying any information or video.
He added that, according to their observations so far, no information indicating major concern regarding Durga Puja has emerged, though they remain cautious considering past experiences.
