Don’t hold programmes in Dhaka city during 10-day state celebrations: DMP

Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) today urged all not to stage any political or social programmes in the capital during the 10-day celebrations marking Mujib Borsho and the golden jubilee of the country's independence from March 17.

The DMP also called upon city dwellers to start journeys earlier than usual to reach their destinations as there may be traffic congestion due to the events and various ongoing development work in the capital.

Monirul Islam, acting commissioner of DMP, made the call while addressing reporters at its headquarters.

To mark Mujib Borsho and golden jubilee of independence, there will be various state programmes from March 17 to 26 in Dhaka.

The state programmes will be attended by heads of state and governments of different countries, including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Monirul, also the chief of Counter Terrorism and Transnational Crime (CTTC) unit, said various programmes used to take place in the city. "On behalf of the police, we are discouraging political and social organisations from staging any programme during this period," he said.

"If it is not compulsory during this time (10-day programme), we are requesting not to have any programmes and if a programme is scheduled during the period, please withdraw it," said the acting commissioner.

Highlighting the problems of city dwellers for development work, Monirul said the state guests would also participate in various programmes during the celebrations.

Monirul said that is why he suggested the city dwellers, who will go somewhere outside the house, to take some extra time.

Moinrul, however, promised that they will try their level best to limit traffic congestion to reduce public suffering.

Regarding the security of foreign guests, the acting DMP boss said there is no scope to compromise on security. "Security will be provided in accordance with the VVIP security protocol at all the events where guests will be attending and [the venues they will be] staying."