Chattogram District Police and leaders of Puja Celebration Committee on the occasion of Sharadiya Durga Puja,

M Oliullah Nizami Chattogram District Reporter, To ensure the upcoming Sharadiya Durga Puja is celebrated in a peaceful, safe and festive environment, an exchange of views meeting was held today at 11 am at the Civic Center of the District Police Lines, on the initiative of Chattogram District Police, with the leaders of the Puja Celebration Parishad of 17 thanas and district level leaders. The meeting was presided over by District Superintendent of Police Mr. Md. Masud Alam BPM, and was attended by Mr. Md. Sefaul Hossain, District Commandant, Bangladesh Ansar and VDP Chattogram, senior officials of the district police, Officers-in-Charge of various thanas, concerned police officers and leaders of the Puja Celebration Parishad. In the meeting, directives were given regarding overall security of puja mandaps, smooth movement of devotees, special security for women and children, installation and keeping active of CC cameras, adequate lighting and alternative power supply, appointment of volunteers, fire safety and quick coordination in emergency situations. The leaders of the Puja Celebration Parishad were urged to remain vigilant about rumors, propaganda and provocative information on social media and not to spread or share any information without verification. They were asked to quickly inform the police if any rumor or misleading information comes to notice. At the same time, they were requested to provide information to the police about persons who try to destabilize the situation through rumors or provocation. Emphasis was placed on taking effective measures to quickly identify and resolve any problems of women devotees and taking necessary measures to keep special assistance arrangements for children. To maintain religious harmony and mutual amity, advice was given to form harmony committees in coordination with representatives of various religions, classes-professions and social representatives. Importance was also given to maintaining coordination with local mosques, religious leaders, public representatives, dignitaries and law enforcement agencies. In addition, the leaders of the Puja Celebration Parishad were requested to follow the prescribed sound level and time limit in using mikes and to observe special caution and sensitivity during Azan and prayer times in nearby mosques. In order that any emerging situation or minor dispute does not turn into a big incident, all concerned must take initiative quickly in a coordinated manner. It was also urged not to take the law into one's own hands in case of any untoward incident and to immediately inform the police. In the meeting, the leaders of the Puja Celebration Parishad from various thanas of the district presented their opinions and suggestions regarding the security of puja mandaps in their respective areas, possible problems, local situation and necessary cooperation. The district police assured to consider their opinions with importance and take necessary measures. Chattogram District Police seeks sincere cooperation from the Puja Celebration Parishad, pujaris, devotees, volunteers and people of all levels to ensure that the upcoming Sharadiya Durga Puja is celebrated in an environment of peace, harmony, security and festivity.