BGB on high alert amid border tensions: Home adviser
Home Adviser Lt Gen (Retd) Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury said that the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) has been directed to remain on high alert in response to border tensions. He assured that all necessary preparations are in place to ensure security.
Speaking to journalists at the BGB Headquarters' Border Conference Center in Pilkhana on Sunday (December 8), after an event to support those injured in the July-August mass uprisings, the adviser emphasised that the BGB is ready to handle any provocation at the border without compromise.
Focus on border security
“The BGB will neither show vulnerability nor make concessions. They have been instructed to be fully prepared for any situation,” said Jahangir Alam.
He assured citizens near the border of their safety, saying, “There is no major tension at the border, but we are prepared to ensure security.”
The adviser also revealed a shift in priorities for the BGB, asking them to reduce their focus on internal security operations and concentrate more on border protection.
Addressing India-related concerns
When questioned about rising tensions with India, Jahangir Alam noted, “India and its people are distinct matters. We have given clear instructions to address any tension diplomatically and practically. Preparations are in line with these directives.”
BGB’s role in maintaining law and order
Reflecting on the BGB’s role during the July-August mass movement, the adviser highlighted their contributions in maintaining order and ensuring security. He commended their actions in protecting minorities, securing police stations, managing traffic, and ensuring the functionality of industries during critical times.
The BGB also arrested nearly 50 individuals from the previous government attempting to flee the country post-revolution and made significant seizures of smuggled goods in the last three months.
Skips question abut RAB
When asked about the dissolution of the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), Jahangir Alam declined to comment.
Rehabilitation and nation-building efforts
BGB Director General Maj. Gen. Mohammad Ashrafuzzaman Siddiqui highlighted the organization’s rehabilitation efforts for individuals injured during the anti-discrimination movement. Financial and medical assistance was provided, including contributions to the Shaheed Abu Sayeed Foundation and injured students.
He reaffirmed the BGB’s readiness to deal with unexpected situations, stating that every member is committed to working as a "vigilant guard at the border," upholding the principle of "country above all."
The event featured speeches from prominent figures, including poet and thinker Farhad Mazhar, who praised the BGB’s dedication to nation-building and their critical role during and after the July Revolution.
