Rehabilitation for ex-militants
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in parliament yesterday offered rehabilitation and legal assistance to those willing to shun the path of militancy.
Replying to lawmakers' queries, she also said a time-befitting standard operating procedure to promptly combat terrorist and militant acts was being prepared.
“Terrorism and militancy are a threat to the country's development and security,” said Hasina, also the Leader of the House, in a scripted answer.
The country witnessed some brutal militant attacks a few months ago followed by law enforcers' drives against militants.
Hasina said a significant number of militants have already surrendered as social awareness increased for a massive anti-militancy campaign.
Motivation and cooperation arrangements were being made for those who surrendered, said the premier.
Besides, she said, a correct list of persons suspected to be missing and fugitive militants has been prepared.
Hasina said a significant number of missing persons have already been traced and many returned home.
"It is one of the anti-militancy successes of the present government," she noted.
Hasina said effective measures would be taken through law enforcement and intelligence agencies to prevent people from being radicalised though online campaigns of militant outfits.
“A mass resistance would be put up in unison through a massive campaign against militancy taking along all the political organisations, religious leaders, teachers, students, guardians, intellectuals, businesspeople and professional bodies,” she said.
Bangladesh is a country of communal harmony and the people hate communalism and militancy, said Hasina, adding, "Terrorism, communalism and militancy are a threat to balanced development and security.”
“The Awami League government took effective measures after coming to power following a zero tolerance policy against militancy. Bangladesh is now being considered as a role model in the world in curbing militancy,” she said.
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