Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed spoke to journalists after a ceremony marking the 31st founding anniversary of the Bangladesh Coast Guard, held at its headquarters in Agargaon in the capital. Photo: PID
Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed has stated 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 recognised by us—there is no such activity in our country at present,” he said. He made these remarks this afternoon while speaking to journalists after a medal-awarding ceremony marking 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 continued. Regarding internal surveillance within law enforcement agencies, he noted that intelligence wings operate within defence forces worldwide. “Military intelligence works to determine whether any member is involved in anti-state or criminal activities. Appropriate action is taken under existing military law in such cases, which is nothing new,” he added.
About the presence of the army in the field, the minister said a gradual withdrawal is underway. “You may not be updated. We are in the process of gradual withdrawal. It is not possible to withdraw the entire force at once. A significant portion has already been reduced, and it will soon be scaled down further. However, he said they will continue to operate in the future if required by district magistrates or the government. On reports regarding a special alert notice issued by police headquarters, he clarified that no such directive had been issued by the government.
“However, around national days or key installations, security measures are always strengthened following standard operating procedures, and support from different forces is taken. This was the case in the past, remains so now, and will continue in the future,” he said. Highlighting the activities of the Coast Guard, he said there are plans to expand operations not only in coastal areas but also across inland waterways. “Expansion into haor regions is also under consideration,” he said. He recalled that the Coast Guard Act was enacted in 1995 under the initiative of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia.
Although the force has expanded since then, he believes it is still not sufficient.
The minister further announced that there is a policy decision to gradually increase the Coast Guard’s personnel from around 5,000 to 10,000. Necessary logistics, modern equipment, helicopters, housing facilities, and training opportunities will also be enhanced. Stressing the need to strengthen the Coast Guard to maintain law and order in coastal regions, he said, “As criminals are becoming more capable with the use of technology, law enforcement agencies must also remain modern and well-prepared. Ahmed also announced a comprehensive plan to modernise and expand the Bangladesh Coast Guard, aiming to strengthen maritime security and operational capacity. He made the announcement while speaking at the force’s 31st founding anniversary.
The minister said the government is prioritising technology, including the induction of surveillance drones and plans for helicopters, rescue drones, and advanced monitoring systems. He added that new vessels are being built with support from the Japan International Cooperation Agency, alongside high-speed boats from local shipyards, and a modern dockyard in Munshiganj is planned. A project is also underway to replace ageing vessels, he said. 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.
