Public won’t be ‘held hostage’ by protests, RAB chief warns

RAB Director General AKM Shahidur Rahman has warned that authorities will not allow any activities that “hold the general public hostage” in the name of pressing demands or staging protests.

“We want to state firmly that in the name of realising demands or movements, any oppression of ordinary people or holding them hostage will not be allowed,” he told reporters on Friday.

He said law-enforcing agencies would keep a “vigilant watch” to ensure that people’s normal daily lives are not disrupted.

Shahidur was speaking after inspecting security arrangements at the Central Shaheed Minar ahead of Ekushey February, which marks Shaheed Day and International Mother Language Day.

His remarks come a day after Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed warned on Wednesday, the first working day of the new government, that roads must not be blocked in the name of pressing demands.

Echoing that position, the chief of the elite police unit said steps would be taken to prevent actions that cause public suffering.

Shahidur also referred to what he described as a “fragile” law and order situation following the July-August 2024 uprising, saying the authorities had since restored stability and ensured a peaceful election.

“After [the July Uprising], there was a fragile law and order situation. From then on, we assured the people that we would be able to bring it under control and improve the situation,” he said.

“We said we would create the kind of environment necessary for a free and fair election. Together, we have been able to deliver a credible election to the nation.”

He added that law-enforcing agencies would remain alert to prevent any deterioration in the situation.

“We want to assure the people that the country’s law and order situation will improve further and that we will be able to control crime. We are always alert and will maintain vigilant watch so that law and order is not disrupted in any way.”