Interim government’s Religious Affairs Adviser Dr. A F M Khalid Hossain has assured that there is no lack of preparation regarding security measures during the Durga Puja celebrations across Bangladesh. He emphasized that law enforcement agencies are actively engaged and all necessary arrangements have been made to ensure the safety of worshippers and festival venues.

Speaking on Tuesday afternoon at a discussion with members of the Hindu community at the Golpahar Mahashmashan Kali Temple in Chattogram, Dr. Hossain urged all to remain vigilant against politically motivated incidents that could disrupt the religious festival. He noted that such incidents are often orchestrated with ulterior motives, targeting sacred sites like temples or shrines in an attempt to provoke unrest.

The adviser stressed that individuals who attack or attempt to desecrate places of worship cannot be identified by any faith but only as criminals. He urged citizens to remain alert and refrain from taking the law into their own hands, underscoring that the responsibility for any offense lies solely with the person committing it, not with any religious community as a whole.

To strengthen security, Dr. Hossain highlighted the importance of installing CCTV cameras at puja mandaps and temples. According to him, this would help prevent incidents such as stone-throwing or attacks, particularly at night. He added that intelligence agencies and law enforcement units are working in coordination to address possible threats and ensure the celebrations remain peaceful.

The adviser also mentioned that hotlines have been activated in consultation with deputy commissioners to provide immediate assistance in case of emergencies. He called on local communities of different faiths to participate in the festivities, stressing that the inclusive spirit of Durga Puja is essential in promoting harmony.

Dr. Hossain reiterated that Bangladesh belongs to all its citizens, regardless of religion, and that attempts to sow communal discord stem from a lack of human values. He emphasized the importance of identifying individuals by their humanity before their religious identity, expressing confidence that Bangladesh would continue to stand as a role model of communal harmony on the global stage.

The discussion was attended by members of the temple management committee along with trustee of the Hindu Religious Welfare Trust, Dipak Kumar Palit, who joined in affirming the commitment to ensuring a safe and peaceful Puja celebration this year.