Make sure that Covid-19 directives are enforced: PM

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina yesterday directed all authorities concerned to perform their duties properly to ensure that the government directives are implemented appropriately to battle the second wave of Covid-19 in the country.

"We've already issued some directives to check coronavirus. You all will have to pay special attention so that people follow the directives properly," she said while inaugurating the newly-constructed multi-storied head office of the National Security Intelligence (NSI).

The premier declared the 20-storied head office building open, joining the event virtually from her official residence Gono Bhaban.

She said her government is especially conscious of keeping the economic activities running, but saving lives is the first priority.

Hasina said various countries witnessed economic slowdown due to the coronavirus situation, but Bangladesh has been able to keep the economic pace running and its growth rate is higher than other South Asian countries.

"We'll have to maintain it (the trend of growth)," she said.

The PM asked all to raise public awareness so that people follow the health protection rules and guidelines.

"All will have to keep themselves protected and protect others. All of you who are in-charge will have to perform your duties properly," she said.

Hasina asked the NSI to work properly to check militancy, terrorism, drug and corruption in the country as the government announced "zero tolerance policy" against these social menaces.

"You will have to remain vigilant about these (social menaces) and take proper measures. You'll have to do whatever is necessary for protecting people's lives and properties, public interest and ensuring peace and security," she said.

"We want that you, every member of NSI, will perform your duties with honesty and sincerity being imbued with the spirit of patriotism," she said.

The PM also emphasised on maintaining the continuation of the country's development. "If we want to keep its continuation, we'll have to maintain peace and order in the country, fight coronavirus and simultaneously keep up the economic pace," she said.

Hasina said though the pandemic may hinder the country's progress to some extent, Bangladesh will be able to recover from it. "Bangladesh is marching forward and will continue to do so," she said.

Extending her thanks to the NSI members for playing a role in fighting the first wave of Covid-19 pandemic, she asked them to play a more significant role this time.

PM's Security Affairs Adviser Tarique Ahmed Siddique was also present at the event, moderated by PM's Principal Secretary Dr Ahmad Kaikaus.

NSI Director General Maj Gen TM Jobaer delivered the welcome speech.

On January 17, 2015, the prime minister laid the foundation stone of the 20-storied building for the NSI head office.