Chattogram Range Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Police Md Ahsan Habib Palash has alleged that some political leaders deliver fiery speeches during the day but later lobby at night for the release of those arrested by law enforcement agencies.
“From what I see in the media, it sometimes feels like we are living in Syria or Libya. It would be better if reporting reflected the realities of the people of this country,” the DIG said. “We are not getting the cooperation we need. Political leaders who give sermons during the day put pressure at night to free the accused we arrest.”
He made the remarks at a view-sharing meeting organised by the Election Commission on Tuesday, December 23, at the Election Building in Agargaon, ahead of the referendum and the 13th National Parliament election.
The meeting was attended by range DIGs, divisional commissioners, deputy commissioners (DCs), superintendents of police (SPs) and regional election officers.
Police and administration officials at the meeting said they were determined to ensure a fair, impartial and festive election environment. They reiterated a zero-tolerance policy to maintain law and order, strengthen border security and prevent the misuse of technology during the polls.
The meeting also stressed the need for strict measures to prevent the release on bail of identified criminals and to intensify efforts to recover illegal weapons. Officials said the administration’s goal was to set a benchmark by delivering a “model election” that would be remembered in history.
DIG Palash emphasised the importance of hands-on training for presiding officers, saying, “We want people to remember the 2026 election even in 2031 and 2036.”
Dhaka Range DIG said the police were committed to a fair and impartial election and that the overall law and order situation remained normal under the directives of the Inspector General of Police (IGP). “No one will be allowed to act unfairly, regardless of party affiliation,” he said, adding that the election would be held in a festive atmosphere.
Sylhet Metropolitan Police Commissioner said their priority was to create a secure election environment by arresting criminals, recovering illegal weapons and ensuring the deposit of licensed arms. He also called for timely disbursement of election budgets and measures to curb rumours on social media.
Rajshahi Metropolitan Police Commissioner said coordination with all stakeholders was ongoing and that the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) was being informed to stop the spread of AI-generated images or videos. “If action is taken promptly against violations of the code of conduct, others will be deterred,” he said, predicting the 2026 election would be recorded in “golden letters” in history.
Khulna Divisional Commissioner pointed to criminal groups in Daulatpur, Kushtia, saying action must be taken against them. He suggested the use of drones in sensitive areas and joint operations at upazila and district levels to prevent wrongdoing.
Mymensingh Divisional Commissioner said all directives of the Election Commission would be implemented immediately and stressed the need for coordination with the judiciary regarding the suspension of bail for criminals.
Sylhet Divisional Commissioner underscored the importance of Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) deployment, citing cross-border movement of weapons and criminals. He said security must be strengthened at border-adjacent polling centres and warned that many criminals continue to orchestrate crimes from inside prisons.
“We want to be witnesses to history,” one administration official said, expressing hope that the 2026 election would become a milestone for the country.