Dhaka, Oct 01 (V7N) – Home Affairs Adviser Lt Gen (retd) Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury has announced that police officers who fail to return to duty will be regarded as criminals and face legal action. He made the statement on Tuesday during a press briefing after a Law and Order Committee meeting at the Ministry of Home Affairs.

"Those who have not yet resumed their duties will no longer be considered members of the police force but will instead be treated as criminals," said the adviser.

Jahangir also revealed that recruitment for new personnel in Ansar, police, and Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) units is currently underway, with a recruitment notice for sub-inspectors expected soon.

Addressing police reforms, he mentioned that a dedicated committee is overseeing the process and will submit a report, which will guide the implementation of reforms.

On preparations for the upcoming Durga Puja, the adviser assured that all necessary measures have been taken to ensure safety during the festival. "We are making every effort to prevent any disruptions during Durga Puja," he said, while also noting that the government is focused on maintaining law and order nationwide.

Security in industrial areas, especially Ashulia, and efforts to recover illegal weapons and combat drug trafficking were also discussed. Special attention is being given to protecting garment factories and religious sites, he added.

When asked about the possibility of extending the Durga Puja holiday to three days, Jahangir clarified, "This issue is beyond my jurisdiction, and I have not taken a stance on it."

Regarding tensions in the Chittagong Hill Tracts, the adviser pointed out that some groups, like the United People's Democratic Front (UPDF), have yet to surrender their weapons as per the peace accord, unlike the JSS, which has disarmed. He acknowledged internal conflicts between these groups and emphasized the need for peaceful coexistence in the region.

The adviser also highlighted ongoing efforts to prevent the influx of arms and external training in the area, stating that measures are being taken to address these challenges.

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