Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed said today there is currently no militant activity in Bangladesh, dismissing concerns over the presence of such groups.

Speaking to reporters at the Coast Guard headquarters after a programme marking its 31st founding anniversary this afternoon, he said, “I do not recognise that term (militancy). There is no such activity in our country.”

He added that extremist elements exist in every country.

“There are always some extremist groups, radical forces or fundamentalist political groups around the world -- we are familiar with that,” he said.

The minister further said the term “militancy” had been used during the “fascist era” for political purposes.

“In the current context of Bangladesh, there is nothing like that,” he said.

Bangladesh, like other countries, has its own intelligence mechanisms within disciplined forces, particularly in defence services, the home minister said.

“These intelligence units monitor whether any member is involved in anti-state or other unlawful activities. There are also coordinated forces and central vigilance systems in place. If anyone is found involved, they are identified and dealt with under military law. This is nothing new,” he added.

Regarding a reported letter from Police Headquarters warning of possible militant attacks, the minister said no such letter had been issued.

“However, we always take precautionary measures during national occasions,” he added.