Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed stated on Tuesday that the term "militant" was historically weaponized for political gain under fascist rule, asserting that such organized activities no longer exist in the country's current landscape.

Speaking to reporters after the 31st anniversary of the Coast Guard in Agargaon, the Minister addressed questions regarding a potential rise in extremism. "I do not recognize that word [militant]," Ahmed said. "There is no such activity in our country. Every nation has some extremist groups, radical forces, or fundamentalist political parties—we are used to that. But the specific term you used no longer belongs to our current culture. It was a tool of the fascist era, used to reap political benefits."

Contrasting Reports on Security Threats
The Minister’s comments come amid a backdrop of findings by a commission investigating enforced disappearances during the previous Awami League administration. The commission noted that the former government used the threat of Islamic extremism as a cover to institutionalize enforced disappearances.

However, the Home Minister’s dismissal of "militancy" appeared to contrast with a recent warning from Police Headquarters. On Thursday, police issued an alert stating that members of a banned extremist organization might target key installations, including the National Parliament. Security has since been tightened at airports and other vital locations.

When asked about this discrepancy, Ahmed clarified that the government had not issued a formal letter to that effect. He maintained that increased security around national holidays or Key Point Installations (KPIs) follows Standard Operating Procedure (SOP), calling it a routine measure that has existed in the past and will continue in the future.

Withdrawal of the Army and Internal Surveillance
Regarding the presence of the military in civilian areas, the Home Minister confirmed that troops are being withdrawn "gradually."

"The withdrawal is underway and will be completed very soon," he said, though he noted that the army remains available to assist the civil administration if necessary.

On the topic of internal surveillance within law enforcement and defense forces, Ahmed explained that military intelligence agencies worldwide monitor their members for anti-state or criminal activities. He emphasized that any such incidents are handled under existing military law and that this is not a new development.

Modernizing the Coast Guard
Earlier, during the ceremony, the Minister detailed plans to transform the Coast Guard into a modern force. Key updates include:

Technology: Three surveillance drones have already been added to the fleet.

Expansion: Plans to increase manpower to 10,000 and expand operations into the haor (wetland) regions.

Equipment: Ongoing construction of Multi-role Response Vessels and Offshore Patrol Vessels, alongside the procurement of high-speed bulletproof boats and maritime helicopters.

The event concluded with the Minister awarding medals to 14 Coast Guard officers for their heroism and distinguished service.