United News of Bangladesh

The Bangladesh Army has not yet received any official directive from the government regarding its deployment in the upcoming national parliamentary elections, said Colonel Md Shafiqul Islam of the Directorate of Military Operations. "No official instruction has been received yet from the government. But, we will fulfill any election-related duties as per the government’s directive," he said while speaking at a press briefing held at Dhaka Cantonment on Thursday. Following discussions with political parties, the government hinted that the next general election might be held in February. Replying to a question on how the army views incidents of mob violence and whether such incidents have increased or decreased, he said, “The army has taken strong measures against any situation involving mob violence or public distress. We’ve been able to significantly reduce incidents of mob violence. In Rangpur, for example, timely deployment of troops helped bring the situation under control.” EC gives nod to draft code banning posters in election campaigns When asked about the army’s involvement during Eid-ul-Azha, Colonel Shafiqul said army personnel had maintained round-the-clock patrols at key bus and railway stations and launch terminals. “Checkposts were also set up at sensitive locations to help control traffic. Alongside our male officers, female officers and soldiers were also on the ground, confidently carrying out their duties during the festival,” he said. “We managed to return over Tk 35 lakh to the passengers from 1,255 vehicles,” he added, noting that such outcomes were made possible by the army’s sincerity, integrity and hard work in serving the people. “Compared to previous Eids, we were able to reduce fatalities and serious injuries by 30 to 40 percent this year,” he said. Asked about the incident where a man was allegedly beaten for selling the national flag during an international football match, Colonel Shafiqul termed it a “regrettable and isolated event.” “All are aware that it was an international-level football match and all necessary security measures were in place. Besides, we later reached out to the flag vendor, expressed our sympathy and provided him with Tk one lakh to help him continue his business successfully,” he added. In response to a question regarding possible push-ins from neighboring countries, Colonel Shafiqul said, “The Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) and Coast Guard are vigilant in these areas. Patrols have been increased along the borders and both permanent and temporary camps have been set up to strengthen security. Intelligence surveillance has also been intensified in those regions.” “At this stage, there has been no need for army involvement in this matter. Therefore, the issue is currently being handled by the BGB and Coast Guard,” he added. Regarding the recent arrests of several top criminals by the army, Colonel Shafiqul said “When we conduct operations to arrest top or any type of criminals, we maintain strict confidentiality. Our operational activities will continue in the future to arrest top criminals as needed.”  

Director General (DG) of Ansar and VDP Major General Abdul Motaleb Sazzad Mahmud said on Sunday that the force is being trained to perform their election duties impartially and free from political influence. He also said that the force will have a different role in the upcoming elections, assuring their neutrality. The DG made the remarks while briefing the media after the inauguration of the National Assembly on the occasion of the 49th founding anniversary of the battalion in Safipur of Gazipur. He emphasised the importance of having a clear understanding of the VDP members' capabilities for establishing a just and equitable welfare state. The Ansar and VDP head called for the members to focus on enhancing their skills according to the new syllabus and training guidelines. Read: Reforms will turn Ansar and VDP into a skilled, professional force: Home Affairs Adviser He also urged officers, employees, and members at all levels to remain vigilant and committed to ensuring the success of the forces' vital mission under the slogan "Social Security and Development." Earlier, the DG released balloons and pigeons marking the event. Following the inauguration, a colourful rally, led by the DG, was organised and marched to several parts of the academy. Prior to the rally, he provided guidance to ensure the smooth execution of the annual assembly's activities.

BNP on Tuesday alleged that “pro-Awami League” officials have been given the responsibility for conducting the elections to two Dhaka city corporations billed for January 30.