Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed has declared an end to what he described as “mob culture” in Bangladesh, saying public demands must now be pursued through lawful and structured channels.
He made the remarks on Wednesday evening after a meeting and exchange of views with officials of the Home Ministry at the ministry.
Responding to questions from journalists, the minister said street pressure tactics would no longer be tolerated.
“I specifically said that mob culture is over in Bangladesh. It cannot be encouraged in any way. Demands will have to be raised through a proper process,” he said.
No more road blockades
While affirming the right to democratic expression, Salahuddin drew a clear line between peaceful protest and disruptive action.
“Processions and rallies can be held. Democratic culture will continue,” he said. “But roads and highways cannot be blocked by mobs to achieve demands.”
In the past 18 months, various groups have resorted to highway blockades and sudden mass gatherings to press home their claims, often leading to traffic paralysis and clashes.
Rebuilding trust in police
Salahuddin also acknowledged the perception gap surrounding the Home Ministry, saying most people equate it solely with the police, while other affiliated agencies receive less public attention.
“The people of Bangladesh know the Home Ministry as the police,” he said, adding that restoring public trust would be a priority.
“I have said that the police should be made friends of the people. The image that was previously destroyed must be regained.”
His remarks signal a push toward community-oriented policing alongside stricter enforcement against unlawful activities.
Zero tolerance for corruption
The new home minister further pledged to make the ministry fully corruption-free, stressing the need for accountability and transparency at every level.
“There will be no illegal lobbying,” he said.
He warned that any member of the force found involved in criminal activity would face swift consequences. “If anyone in the force is involved in a crime, immediate action will be taken through investigation. Immediate.”
Silence on the IGP question
When asked why several senior officers, including the Inspector General of Police, were not present at the meeting, the minister said they had met earlier and might have been occupied with other duties.
Pressed further on whether any decision had been taken regarding a possible change in the position of IGP, Salahuddin did not respond.
The minister’s strong stance on mob action and internal accountability marks an early signal of how the new administration plans to handle law and order, with a mix of tighter control and institutional reform.