A Correspondent:
Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed said that militancy no longer exists in Bangladesh, claiming that the term had previously been used during the “fascist era” for political gain.
“The term ‘militancy’ is no longer recognized by us—there is no such activity in our country at present,” he said.
He made these remarks yesterday while speaking to journalists after a medal-awarding ceremony mark-ing the 31st founding anniversary of the Bangladesh Coast Guard, held at its headquarters in Agargaon in the capital.
Some extremist groups exist in every country, and there may be some radical or fundamental political forces as well—these are normal, he said.
But in the current context of Bangladesh, there is no existence of militancy. In the past, during a fascist regime, this term and issue were used to gain political advantage, he added.
He praised the Coast Guard’s role in ensuring maritime security and awarded medals to 14 members for bravery and service.
Senior Secretary of the Home Ministry Manzur Morshed Chowdhury spoke at the function as the special guest, while Director General of the Bangladesh Coast Guard Rear Admiral Md Ziaul Hoque delivered the welcome address.
Military and civil officers from home and abroad were present.
