Dhaka (Bangladesh), 13 October (H.S.): The Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) will deploy approximately 10,000 personnel from October 16 to 22 to ensure the security of Durga Puja pandals during Sharadiya Navratri, one of the biggest religious festivals celebrated by the Hindu community in the country. Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Mahbub Murshed Rahman, speaking at the BGB headquarters, provided the information. He said coordination had been established with Durga Puja organising committees. The BGB personnel will provide security at 2,727 pandals located near the border and battalion headquarters.

According to a report by the Dhaka Tribune, Lieutenant Colonel Rahman said a comprehensive security plan had been drawn up to maintain peace during the festival. BGB personnel will conduct regular patrols, while intelligence agencies will monitor the pandals. The BGB has also coordinated with the local administration, police and Durga Puja organising committees.

“Priority has been given to the early identification of potential threats, vigilance against rumours and communal incitement, and prompt action in the event of any untoward incident,” he said.

He stated that the BGB would provide security assistance to 2,727 Durga Puja pandals. These include pandals located within an eight-kilometre radius of the border, as well as those situated near battalion headquarters. Temporary security camps will also be established at strategic locations to ensure intensive patrolling and prompt assistance in remote and inaccessible areas.

He further said that no decision had yet been taken regarding the implementation of the security plan in Dhaka. The BGB would act in accordance with the directives issued by the government.

Describing Durga Puja as a symbol of Bangladesh’s longstanding tradition of communal harmony and mutual respect, Lieutenant Colonel Rahman said the BGB was fully prepared to ensure that members of the Hindu community could celebrate the festival safely and joyfully.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar