Home Affairs Adviser Lt. Gen. (retd.) Md. Jahangir Alam Chowdhury has announced that, alongside the army, the navy and air force will also be engaged in election duties during the upcoming national polls.
He made the remarks while speaking to journalists at the Sylhet Deputy Commissioner’s office on Monday.
Chowdhury said that legal measures are being taken against absent police officers, while new recruits are being trained to fill the gaps.
“Over 4,000 recruits have already completed training, another batch is currently under training, and a fresh batch will soon begin. Ahead of the election, other forces will also undergo training. On the 7th, this program will be launched at Rajarbagh Police Convention Hall,” he stated.
Highlighting the role of different law enforcement agencies, the adviser added: “We have requested support from the army, BGB, Ansar, and others. Ansar plays the largest role in election duties—previously 12 were deployed per polling center, now one more will be added to ensure the presiding officer’s security. Police will be stationed in twos or threes depending on the area. The army will remain mobile, while BGB, RAB, and APBn will also be present. This time, not only the army but also the navy and air force will be engaged.”
On the issue of stolen police weapons, Chowdhury urged citizens to share information. “Your tips have already helped recover arms. We will keep your identity confidential, and if weapons are recovered based on your information, you will be rewarded,” he said. He further stressed the need for patience and tolerance, saying, “Democracy is about diverse opinions—our challenge is to remain patient in the face of disagreements.”
Addressing recent political violence, the adviser condemned the attack on Nurul Haque Nur. “It was unfortunate and deplorable. Nur is a national-level leader, and we wish him a quick recovery,” he said.
Regarding campus unrest, Chowdhury expressed hope that university teachers and students would resolve issues through dialogue without the constant involvement of law enforcement agencies.
He also responded to queries about illegal stone extraction, saying: “White stone falls under the Ministry of Mineral Resources. The report will go to them. I have no details yet, but I thank you for providing such information.”
