Militancy no longer exists in Bangladesh: Home minister

Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed said on Tuesday that militancy no longer exists in Bangladesh, claiming that the term had previously been used during the “fascist era” for political gain.

“The term ‘militancy’ is no longer recognised by us -- there is no such activity in our country at present,” he said.

He made these remarks in the afternoon while speaking to journalists after a medal-awarding ceremony marking the 31st founding anniversary of the Bangladesh Coast Guard, held at its headquarters in the capital’s Agargaon.

Some extremist groups exist in every country, and there may be some radical or fundamental political forces as well -- these are normal, he said.

“But in the current context of Bangladesh, there is no existence of militancy. In the past, during a fascist regime, this term and issue were used to gain political advantage,” he added.

Regarding internal surveillance within law enforcement agencies, the home minister noted that intelligence wings operate within defence forces worldwide.

“Military intelligence works to determine whether any member is involved in anti-state or criminal activities. Appropriate action is taken under existing military law in such cases, which is nothing new,” he added.

About the presence of the army in the field, the minister said a gradual withdrawal is 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.”

However, he said they will continue to operate in the future if required by district magistrates or the government.

On reports regarding a special alert notice issued by police headquarters, he clarified that no such directive had been issued by the government.

“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 said.

Highlighting the activities of the Coast Guard, he said there are plans to expand operations not only in coastal areas but also across inland waterways.

“Expansion into haor regions is also under consideration,” he said.