Dhaka, Sep 25 (V7N) – The High Court has issued a ruling questioning the authorities' failure to protect shrines and address their destruction across the country, seeking to know why this negligence should not be declared illegal. The ruling was issued on Tuesday by a bench comprising Justice Kamrul Hossain Molla and Justice Kazi Zeenat Haque, in response to a writ petition.

The Home Secretary, Public Administration Secretary, Religion Secretary, Culture Secretary, Inspector General of Police (IGP), and Wakf Administration have been asked to respond to the court within four weeks. Additionally, the court has directed the government to resolve a previous petition within two months, which calls for those involved in the destruction of shrines to be brought under the law.

The petition was presented by lawyer Md. Taufiq Szawar Perth, with support from petitioner Shah Alam Abhi. The petitioners expressed concern about the increasing attacks on shrines, which they argue is a deliberate attempt by miscreants to disrupt law and order in the country.

In a related move, the Ministry of Religious Affairs has instructed District Administrators to ensure the security of shrines and maintain peace and order for devotees. The ministry has expressed alarm over the attacks on shrines, which are considered sacred burial places for revered figures like Auli-Auliya and Dervishes, with a long-standing tradition of pilgrimage and devotion.

District Administrators have been asked to take immediate steps to safeguard the shrines and report any potential threats to the Ministry of Religious Affairs.

END/RH/AJ