Dhaka Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sheikh Mohammad Sazzat Ali today said there is no security threat surrounding the observance of Language Martyrs’ Day and International Mother Language Day, as authorities rolled out extensive arrangements to ensure orderly commemorations at the Central Shaheed Minar and across the capital.
"Comprehensive preparations are in place to safeguard the Amar Ekushey observances," he said while briefing reporters at the Shaheed Minar premises this morning.
He said the 13th National Parliamentary Election was held peacefully, highlighting the effectiveness of security measures and public cooperation.
“Voters exercised their franchise in a calm and orderly environment. There were no security concerns anywhere during the election. Similarly, there is no security threat surrounding the Amar Ekushey observances,” he added.
Despite the absence of any specific threat, the DMP chief said specialised police units, including the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team, dog squad, bomb disposal unit and crime scene investigators, would remain on standby alongside regular law enforcement personnel.
Intelligence surveillance and cyber monitoring have also been intensified as part of a layered security framework.
He said the Central Shaheed Minar would be opened to the public at around 12:40 am, after the president, the prime minister and other state dignitaries pay their tributes on February 21.
Members of the public have been instructed to approach the monument via the designated route through Palashi intersection and Jagannath Hall crossing.
“No other route will be allowed for entry to the Shaheed Minar. For the sake of discipline and security, everyone must follow the instructions,” he said.
Visitors will be able to exit the premises through Ramna crossing towards Doel Chattar or via Chankharpul after paying their respects.
To maintain order and ensure smooth traffic flow, diversions will be enforced at several entry points to the Dhaka University area from the evening. Teachers, students, officials and residents have been requested to comply with police instructions.
The DMP commissioner said security measures extended beyond the Shaheed Minar, covering the entire capital.
“Our security plan covers the whole of Dhaka city. Around 15,000 police members will be deployed to ensure overall safety,” he added.
Also present at the briefing, Additional Commissioner (Traffic) Md Rahman said diversions would be implemented at seven key intersections, with police personnel stationed to guide vehicles and minimise congestion.
Senior officials of Dhaka Metropolitan Police, including the Detective Branch chief, were also present at the briefing.
Rapid Action Battalion (Rab) also held a press conference at the Shaheed Minar premises this morning. Speaking at the press conference, Rab Director General Additional IGP AKM Shahidur Rahman said they have taken special security preparations at the Central Shaheed Minar and across the country on the occasion of the Language Martyrs’ Day and International Mother Language Day.
He said all necessary security measures have been taken to ensure the events are held peacefully, smoothly and safely. Rab personnel have been deployed in coordination with other law enforcement agencies.
Our Dhaka University correspondent contributed to this report.
