Home Adviser Lieutenant General (Retd) Md Jahangir Alam Choudhury has assured that this year’s Durga Puja will be observed in a more festive, organized and peaceful manner than in previous years.
Following a visit to Ramna Kali Mandir in Dhaka this afternoon, the Home Adviser praised the temple committee for their efficient preparations and said, “I want to assure everyone that Durga Puja will be celebrated more peacefully and festively than last year. It will be well-organized.”
Responding to questions from journalists, he confirmed that there is no threat of attacks surrounding Puja celebrations and expressed hope that the festivities would proceed smoothly and without disruption.
To ensure nationwide safety, the government will implement round-the-clock surveillance at all Puja mandaps, deploying Ansar, police and other law enforcement agencies.
The Home Adviser also highlighted the government’s increased financial support, noting that this year, Tk 5 crore has been allocated for Durga Puja celebrations; up from Tk 4 crore last year.
“In the past 15 years of Awami League rule, the allocation was just Tk 2 crore,” he said.
He further mentioned a significant increase in the number of mandaps across the country, reflecting the growing enthusiasm for the festival.
He also urged people not to spread or believe in misinformation or rumours regarding the celebrations.
He announced the launch of a new mobile app designed to monitor the situation at Puja venues nationwide and enable swift response if needed.
President of Ramna Kali Mandir Committee, Arpana Roy, expressed gratitude to the Home Adviser for ensuring comprehensive security measures, saying that it will help devotees celebrate the festival in peace and joy.