Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed on Tuesday stated that militancy no longer exists in Bangladesh, claiming the term was previously exploited for political gain during the "fascist era."
“The term ‘militancy’ is no longer recognised by us—there is no such activity in our country at present,” the Minister said while speaking to journalists following a medal-awarding ceremony marking the 31st founding anniversary of the Bangladesh Coast Guard at its Agargaon headquarters this afternoon.
He noted that while extremist groups or radical political forces exist in every country as a normal occurrence, there is no active militancy in the current context of Bangladesh.
“In the past, during a fascist regime, this term and issue were used to gain political advantage,” he added.
Addressing internal surveillance within law enforcement, the Minister explained that intelligence wings operate within defense forces globally to monitor for anti-state or criminal activities.
“Appropriate action is taken under existing military law in such cases, which is nothing new,” he noted. Regarding the deployment of the army, he clarified that a gradual withdrawal is already underway.
“You may not be updated. We are in the process of gradual withdrawal. It is not possible to withdraw the entire force at once. A significant portion has already been reduced, and it will soon be scaled down further,” he said, adding that they would remain available if required by the government or district magistrates.
The Home Minister also dismissed reports of a "special alert notice" from police headquarters, clarifying that no such government directive exists.
“However, around national days or key installations, security measures are always strengthened following standard operating procedures, and support from different forces is taken. This was the case in the past, remains so now, and will continue in the future,” he explained.
Turning to the Bangladesh Coast Guard, the Minister announced a comprehensive modernization and expansion plan.
He recalled that the Coast Guard Act was enacted in 1995 under the initiative of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia.
While the force has grown, he stated it is currently insufficient for the country’s needs. Consequently, a policy decision has been made to double the personnel from 5,000 to 10,000, alongside enhancing logistics, housing, and training.
“As criminals are becoming more capable with the use of technology, law enforcement agencies must also remain modern and well-prepared,” Ahmed stressed.
The modernization effort includes the induction of surveillance drones, helicopters, and advanced monitoring systems.
He further revealed that new vessels are being constructed with support from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), high-speed boats are being sourced from local shipyards, and a modern dockyard is planned for Munshiganj.
The Minister praised the force’s role in maritime security and awarded medals to 14 members for their bravery and service.
The event was also addressed by Home Ministry Senior Secretary Manzur Morshed Chowdhury as the special guest, with the welcome address delivered by Director General of the Bangladesh Coast Guard, Rear Admiral Md Ziaul Hoque.
High-ranking military and civil officials from home and abroad attended the ceremony.
