Durga Puja 2024: Bangladesh on high alert, police enforce 3-level security, helpline issued for Hindus

Bangladesh: India's eastern neighbour announced strict security measures ahead of the Durga Puja 2024 festivities to protect the Hindu minority, following concerns about violence targeting Hindu communities, said the police.

The Bangladesh Inspector of General Police (IGP), Md Moinul Islam, said officers will implement a three-level security plan during Durga Puja, pre-Durga Puja and for idol immersion afterwards. He added that the Bangladeshi police will exercise utmost vigilance in the security of the puja mandaps, reported ANI.

The Durga Puja 2024 festivities, scheduled for October 8- October 13, will take place in 32,666 pavilions across Bangladesh.

In addition to the three-level security, the IGP also informed that the police have strengthened cyber monitoring to prevent the spread of rumours on social media.

In case of emergency, the Hindu leaders have been requested to contact the National Emergency Service 999 or the nearest police station. 

IGP Islam said that security had been enhanced as criminals usually attempt to cause disruptions inside the puja mandap at midnight or on the last night of the festival. The police have also installed CCTV cameras for round-the-clock vigilance.

Reportedly, there have been several attacks on the Hindu minorities following former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's exit from the country.

In September 2024, a 15-year-old Hindu boy was beaten and killed by a mob inside a Bangladesh police station for allegedly making “objectionable comments” about Prophet Muhammad on social media.

Durga Puja: 4 killed, Para forces in 22 districts

In 2021, at least four people were killed and several injured after some Hindu temples in Bangladesh were attacked during the Durga Puja celebrations.

The incident prompted the government to deploy a paramilitary force in 22 districts. Border Guards Bangladesh (BGB) troops had also been deployed across the country to stop the spread of violence.

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