Police key to ensuring a free, fair national election: Home adviser

Home Adviser Lt Gen (retd) Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury today said that police will play the most crucial role in ensuring a free, fair, and neutral national election.

Speaking at a special crime review meeting at the Hall of Pride in Police Headquarters this morning, the adviser said the greatest responsibility lies with the police to meet the expectations of the people, political parties, and all sections of society.

"The nation expects that Bangladesh Police will set such a standard in the upcoming election that it will be appreciated not only at home but also internationally," he said.

The meeting was chaired by Inspector General of Police (IGP) Baharul Alam and attended by range DIGs, metropolitan police commissioners, superintendents of police, and senior officials from Police Headquarters.

Addressing the officials, Jahangir Alam said law enforcement is not only about the use of power but also about justice and democratic rights. "In the election field, you are not merely enforcers of law and order; you are symbols of public safety, trust, and democratic rights," he told the officers.

The adviser said political dialogue among parties had already begun. With that in mind, no police member should take sides, seek or provide political favours, or act as political activists, he added.

He also noted that the police have identified individuals he described as "fascists" who are involved in creating unrest.

He warned that many criminals released on bail were committing crimes again. Stressing that no innocent person should be harassed, he called for increased arrests to curb violence, propaganda, and flash processions.

Jahangir instructed senior officers to strengthen professionalism, discipline, and team spirit within the force. He said strict administrative and legal measures must be taken against those lacking professionalism or respect for state authority.

He further directed police to hold regular district-level core committee meetings, ensure swift withdrawal of politically motivated cases, and expedite the disposal of false cases. He called for a more active role from the Special Branch and intensified drives to recover looted, lost, or illegal firearms.

The adviser also urged police to strengthen security at key point installations (KPIs) and remain vigilant against rising incidents of fire and other accidents. "Any attack on police will not be tolerated under any circumstances," he said, directing immediate legal action against perpetrators.

Highlighting the growing threat of cybercrime, he called on younger officers to take the lead in combating it. During the meeting, Jahangir Alam also responded to questions from DIGs, commissioners, and SPs, providing guidance and instructions on election preparedness and law enforcement priorities.