Government Directs Strict Measures Against Jhatika Rallies and Illegal Assemblies

In response to recent attempts by the banned Awami League to hold rallies in various parts of the capital, the interim government has issued a stern warning against Jhatika rallies and other illegal gatherings.

A high-level government meeting has directed that strict legal action be taken against those involved in illegal activities. On Sunday, Principal Adviser Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam announced this during a press conference at the Foreign Service Academy in the capital. The press secretary attended the briefing to discuss the outcomes of the high-level meeting held at the State Guest House Jamuna. He stated that the meeting was convened in light of recent incidents. The meeting was attended by Home Adviser Jahangir Alam Chowdhury, Planning Adviser Wahiduddin Mahmud, Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Adviser Muhammad Fazlur Kabir Khan, Law Adviser Asif Nazrul, Shipping and Labour and Employment Ministry Adviser M. Sakawat Hossain, Finance Adviser Salehuddin Ahmed, Industry Adviser Adilur Rahman Khan, Environment Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan, Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Ministry Adviser Asif Mahmud Sajeeb Bhuiyan, and National Security Adviser Khalilur Rahman. Also present were Principal Adviser's Special Assistant (Home Ministry) Khoda Baksh Chowdhury, IGP Baharul Alam, Principal Adviser's Chief Secretary Siraj Uddin Mia, and senior military and civilian officials. Press Secretary Shafiqul said, "The meeting with the Principal Adviser decided to intensify monitoring of Jhatika rallies and illegal assemblies. Strict legal action will be taken against those active behind these." He added, "The meeting instructed local administrations to be more proactive in dealing with such incidents. Strict directives were given in this regard." The press secretary stated, "Emphasis was placed on maintaining political unity with the July (uprising) in focus, maintaining good relations with political parties, and urging everyone to remain vigilant to prevent any security-related incidents surrounding the upcoming elections." "Further emphasis was given on building closer relations with political parties on this matter." Shafiqul said, "The Principal Adviser mentioned that there could be conspiratorial attempts to create unrest during the upcoming Durga Puja." He added that last year's law and order situation during Durga Puja was positive, and that experience can be utilized this year. The Principal Adviser stressed ensuring all kinds of security measures are taken in advance to prevent any unruly situations. The press secretary informed that the Religious Affairs Ministry has been directed to hold meetings with all religion-based organizations to maintain communal harmony, and the Religious Adviser will soon engage in discussions with various groups. He said the meeting decided to continuously monitor the security situation, enhance coordination among security forces, and prepare the administration in advance for any situation. Additionally, the Principal Adviser has directed university administrations to provide all possible cooperation to ensure the DUCSU elections take place in a peaceful and festive atmosphere, the press secretary added. He stated, "The meeting discussed that defeated fascist forces become desperate and reckless whenever they see the country moving towards elections and the trial process for those involved in the July massacre accelerating." "As a result, they are coming out in full force to destroy the overall peace and order of the country and disrupt the democratic progress. This is no longer just a law and order issue; it has become a national security concern." "The meeting emphasized that no leniency will be shown to anyone regarding the overall security of the country. The government believes it is necessary for all political parties to remain united with the people in the interest of the nation." Principal Adviser's two deputy press secretaries, Abul Kalam Azad Majumdar and Apurba Jahangir, were also present at the press conference.