Police not resuming duty yet will not be allowed to join: Home adviser

The policemen who have not resumed their duties yet will not be allowed to join work again, Home Adviser Brigadier Lt General Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury said today (18 September).

"They are hiding because they must have been involved in some misdeeds. Disciplinary action will be taken against them," he said in response to questions from reporters after the training parade of 40th BCS (Ansar) cadre officers and 25th batch (male) sepoys of Bangladesh Ansar and Village Defense Party (VDP) at Kaliakore in Gazipur this morning (18 September).

At this time he also said the number of police who have not yet joined the work is negligible.

"We are searching for information about them. You [journalists] can also let us know if you have any information about them," he added.

During the ceremony, the adviser highlighted the vital role played by the Ansar force throughout Bangladesh's history, particularly during times of national crisis. He noted that Ansar members have consistently demonstrated deep patriotism and have been instrumental in maintaining law and order, as well as contributing to the country's overall development. "The force has played a special role in ensuring the security of critical infrastructure and diplomatic areas," he said.

Reflecting on the past, the adviser pointed out that following the fall of the autocratic government during the anti-discrimination student movement, Ansar members bravely safeguarded key installations such as police stations, traffic points, and airports, often risking their lives. He specifically praised the Ansar Guard Battalion for securing police stations within the Dhaka Metropolitan area and ensuring the safety of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport.

He also acknowledged the courage of Ansar members stationed at state guest house Jamuna, who continued their duties despite a shortage of police personnel. "I extend my heartfelt thanks and gratitude to all members of this force for their courageous contributions in times of national emergency," he added.

The adviser also commended the voluntary Village Defense Party (VDP) members, who are spread across every village in Bangladesh, for their significant role in maintaining peace and security. He praised their efforts in addressing recent social security crises in rural areas and their vigilant actions against attempts to incite communal unrest. "VDP members stood as a barrier against those who sought to spread communal poison by attacking temples, churches, and other places of worship. They protected these religious sites and fostered harmony within the minority communities," he  said.

Dr Mohammad Abdul Momen, senior secretary of the Public Security Division of the Ministry of Home Affairs and Major General Abdul Motaleb Sajjad Mahmood, Director General of the Bangladesh Ansar and VDP, among others, were present at the event.