SRB-14 has introduced special security measures to ensure the peaceful celebration of Durga Puja, deploying intelligence teams, conducting regular patrols and monitoring social media to prevent rumours and religious provocation.
Masud Rana, commander of SRB-14 and an additional deputy inspector general of the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), disclosed the measures at a press briefing at Shri Shri Rin Dayamoyee Temple in Dayamoyee Mor, Jamalpur town, on Saturday (October 17).
He said a total of 3,350 puja mandaps are located across six districts—Mymensingh, Sherpur, Jamalpur, Tangail, Netrokona and Kishoreganj—and the Roumari and Rajibpur areas of Kurigram under SRB-14’s jurisdiction. Of these, 225 mandaps are in Jamalpur district.
Law enforcement agencies are working round the clock to maintain peace and order at the mandaps, he said.
Masud Rana said intelligence surveillance in plain clothes had been strengthened ahead of the festival. Mobile teams are conducting regular patrols around the mandaps and nearby areas, while SRB-14 is coordinating with local puja committees to install CCTV cameras and arrange searches using metal detectors at important venues.
Special striking forces and trained teams remain on standby around the clock to respond to emergencies, he said. Security arrangements for idol immersion routes and ghats have also been coordinated with the district administration, police and Fire Service.
A cyber team is monitoring social media to prevent the spread of religious provocation and rumours. Masud Rana urged people not to like, comment on or share unverified information, images or videos, warning that legal action would be taken against those spreading rumours online.
He urged people to report suspicious individuals or incidents to the SRB-14 control room at 01777711499, the SRB-14 CPC-1 Jamalpur company commander at 01777711411, or the national emergency service at 999.
Describing Bangladesh as a country of communal harmony, Masud Rana said festivals belonged to everyone and urged devotees and puja committees to celebrate Durga Puja without fear. He assured them that SRB-14 would remain beside them to ensure their security.
He also sought cooperation from media professionals and people from all walks of life.
Ranjan Singha, general secretary of Shri Shri Rin Dayamoyee Temple, was present at the briefing.
