The World Ijtema, one of the largest gatherings of Muslims globally, begins today (Friday) at the Turag riverbank in Tongi. The first phase of this year’s Ijtema will commence after the Fajr prayer with a sermon, marking the beginning of the event. Extensive preparations have been made at the Ijtema grounds, and additional security measures have been implemented to ensure the safety of all participants.

The Ijtema this year will be held in three phases: the first phase from January 31 to February 2, the second phase from February 3 to 5, and the third phase from February 14 to 16. As in previous years, the Bangladesh Railway authorities have arranged special trains to facilitate the transport of attendees to the Ijtema site. Additionally, the Fire Service and Civil Defence have made extensive preparations to handle fire safety and provide emergency medical care during the event.

The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Baharul Alam, stated that the security measures for the Ijtema have been strengthened significantly compared to previous years. After inspecting the security arrangements at the Ijtema grounds on Wednesday, he assured the public that necessary steps had been taken to ensure a secure environment for attendees.

According to the IGP, sufficient police personnel will be deployed to maintain security both within and around the Ijtema grounds. Special units, including the Bomb Disposal Unit, SWAT teams, Dog Squads, Explosive Teams, Crime Scene Vans, and units to combat theft, pickpocketing, and other crimes, will be stationed at strategic points. There will also be marine patrols to monitor the surrounding waterways, and additional security measures will be in place at the railway stations.

The entire Ijtema ground will be under surveillance via CCTV cameras, while drone monitoring and watchtowers will further enhance security coverage. Police will conduct thorough checks at all entry points using archways and handheld metal detectors. Both uniformed and plainclothes police officers, along with members of the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), will be stationed at various locations to ensure the safety of participants. Special security arrangements have also been made for VIP visitors and foreign guests.

The IGP expressed confidence that with the collective efforts of all law enforcement agencies, the Ijtema will be held in a peaceful and secure environment.

Meanwhile, the Director-General of the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), AKM Shahidur Rahman, also reassured the public that there are no security risks concerning the event. He noted that, apart from some internal disagreements among certain groups, there are no major threats to the gathering at this time.

During his visit to the Ijtema grounds in Tongi on Thursday, the RAB chief emphasized that all necessary security measures had been implemented. He further stated that RAB personnel would provide round-the-clock security through foot patrols, vehicle patrols, motorcycle patrols, and striking forces. The entire area will be monitored by 123 CCTV cameras, with additional surveillance from drones. Marine patrols using RAB's speedboats will also be conducted on the nearby waterways.

The RAB Director-General added that his forces are working in coordination with other law enforcement agencies, local administration, and intelligence organizations to ensure the smooth and secure conduct of the Ijtema, ultimately aiming to enhance the country’s image on the global stage.

As the World Ijtema kicks off, authorities are keen on ensuring that the event proceeds without incident, with participants able to focus on the spiritual aspects of the gathering in a secure environment.