Dhaka, Feb 07, (V7N) - Bangladesh’s interim government has pledged to take strong measures to prevent acts of vandalism and arson targeting institutions and buildings across the country. This announcement was made on the official verified Facebook page of the Chief Adviser late last night.

The statement read, "The interim government is deeply concerned about attempts by certain individuals and groups to damage and set fire to various institutions and buildings. The government will strongly resist such activities."

It further added, "The interim government is committed to ensuring the safety and security of citizens and their property. If there are any attempts to destabilize the country through incitement, law enforcement agencies will immediately take strong action against the responsible individuals and groups and bring them to justice."

Earlier, the interim government condemned the vandalism and arson at the residence of Bangladesh's founding father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, located at 32 Dhanmondi in the capital. The government deemed this act as inappropriate and unforeseen. It also linked the incident to inflammatory remarks made by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, currently in hiding in India, regarding the July uprising.

The statement emphasized two points from Sheikh Hasina’s speech: First, her disrespectful comments about the martyrs who lost their lives in the July uprising, which were seen as belittling their sacrifices with absurd and hateful words. Second, her continued threats against those involved in the uprising, even from exile, which intensified the wounds of the tragic event.

The statement clarified, "The attack on 32 Dhanmondi occurred in response to Sheikh Hasina's violent rhetoric." The interim government reassured that it is on high alert to protect the country's stability and citizens’ safety. Law enforcement is actively managing the situation and taking appropriate actions.

The government also expressed hope that India would prevent its territory from being used to incite instability in Bangladesh and ensure Sheikh Hasina does not contribute to escalating tensions further. The interim government also stressed that it does not want similar incidents to occur again.

In closing, the statement affirmed that the trials for those involved in the July massacre are progressing. The interim government remains committed to ensuring justice and appropriate punishment for the perpetrators, and will continue to evaluate legal actions against those involved in incitement activities.

END/VD/SMA/