Gazipur, June 12 (V7N) – Bangladesh's Home Adviser, Lt Gen (retd) Jahangir Alam Chowdhury, stated today that Tarique Rahman, acting chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), is free to return to the country without any impediment.

"He is a citizen of Bangladesh. He can return whenever he desires," the adviser affirmed when questioned by journalists about Rahman's potential return during his visit to Salna Highway Police Station in Gazipur.

Adviser Chowdhury, who arrived in Salna around 11 AM, distributed masks to journalists and inspected the highway police station. Following the inspection, he urged reporters to provide comprehensive and accurate coverage of his statements, noting that "partial reports are often led to misinterpretation. Neighbouring countries sometimes circulate false reports for their own interests based on such incomplete information."

Addressing public health concerns, the adviser emphasized the need for public awareness regarding the use of polythene and urged both citizens and journalists to avoid its use and promote awareness against it. On the topic of COVID-19, he stressed the importance of proper mask usage, stating, "Masks must be used properly, not just kept in pockets. We must stay alert, even though we are not currently facing serious Covid-related problems."

Regarding the risk of COVID-19 transmission from individuals being "pushed in" across the border, Chowdhury explained that "Tests are being conducted for everyone. Measures have been taken to strengthen awareness and health screening at airports and land ports also."

On the contentious issue of Indian authorities pushing individuals into Bangladesh despite objections, the adviser stated that the matter has already been addressed by the foreign affairs adviser and formal letters have been issued. "If any Bangladeshi nationals are staying in their country, of course we will take them back, but they must return through proper channels," he asserted, adding that Indian authorities have forcibly pushed people into Bangladesh territory through jungles and remote roads, violating human rights. He confirmed that the Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh has been informed to take necessary steps in this regard.

Later in the day, Adviser Chowdhury visited the Gazipur Battalion Headquarters of Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) at Rajendrapur, where he was briefed on BGB activities and planted a tree. He also toured an agriculture department project in the area.

Accompanying the adviser were Additional Inspector General of Highway Police Shafiqul Islam, Gazipur Metropolitan Police (GMP) Commissioner Dr. Nazmul Karim Khan, Additional Police Commissioner of GMP Taherul Haque Chawhan, Deputy Commissioner of Gazipur Nafisa Arefin, and Police Super Dr. Chowdhury Md Zaber Sadek.

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