Home Adviser says no security threat ahead of February 12 polls

Home Adviser Lieutenant General (retd) Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury on Sunday said the overall law-and-order situation remains stable and under control, adding that there is no security threat surrounding the 13th parliamentary elections scheduled for February 12.

He expressed confidence that the polls would be held peacefully, despite attempts by what he described as “fascist elements” to create obstacles and disrupt the electoral process.

“I can assure you that the election will be conducted in a free, fair, neutral and credible manner with the cooperation of all concerned,” he said.

The Home Adviser made the remarks while briefing journalists after attending a programme marking BGB Day 2025 at the Pilkhana headquarters in the capital.

Responding to questions about recent incidents, including a bomb explosion at a madrasah, he said accomplices of the main suspect have already been arrested and efforts are underway to capture the prime culprits.

Asked about the possibility of arms infiltration ahead of the election, Jahangir said the Home Ministry and Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) are fully prepared to ensure a peaceful polling environment.

He said around 35,000 BGB members will be deployed during the national parliamentary election, adding that arms and ammunition are being seized regularly and that BGB personnel have been put on high alert.

Addressing the BGB Day 2025 programme, the Home Adviser said the force has a proud and glorious legacy and continues to play a vital role in protecting the country.

Describing the BGB as a “three-dimensional” force, he said it is actively involved in border security, maintaining law and order, and providing public welfare services.

He reaffirmed the government’s full commitment to the development and modernization of the BGB and urged its members to perform their duties with honesty, integrity and vigilance in the national interest.

He stressed that drugs and illegal goods must not be allowed to cross the border and that sensitive areas require heightened surveillance, warning that strict legal action would be taken against smugglers and anyone found assisting them.

Calling on commanders to remain attentive to the welfare of their personnel, he said safeguarding national interests must remain the top priority.

The Home Adviser also urged BGB members to maintain absolute loyalty to the chain of command and to carry out both border security and internal law-and-order duties with professionalism and dedication.

Expressing confidence in the force, he said the BGB would continue its proud journey as a vigilant guardian of the nation’s borders and a symbol of public trust, wishing its members good health and continued success in serving the country.