Bangladesh police have implemented a comprehensive three-tier security plan covering nearly 33,000 Durga Puja venues nationwide to ensure safety and communal harmony during the Sharadiya Durga Puja 2026 celebrations, officials said. The initiative was announced by Inspector General of Police (IGP) Ali Hossain Fakir during a meeting held at Police Headquarters in Dhaka on Monday.

The security strategy divides the festival period into three phases: the pre-festival preparations, the days of celebration including the idol immersion rituals, and the post-festival period. IGP Fakir emphasized the importance of vigilance at all levels to prevent any incidents that could threaten communal peace.

Field-level officers have been instructed to respond promptly to rumours and misinformation, particularly on social media, that could potentially incite tension or disrupt harmony among communities. Police Headquarters has directed active monitoring to identify and act against individuals or groups spreading propaganda or false information.

Operationally, the deployment includes uniformed and plainclothes officers, supported by specialised teams such as the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) unit, Crime Response Teams (CRT), Quick Response Teams (QRT), bomb disposal squads, and crime scene investigation vans. A dedicated monitoring cell will operate continuously at Police Headquarters throughout the festival to oversee security developments and coordinate rapid responses.

Authorities have also advised Durga Puja committees to equip venues and idol immersion sites with functioning closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras and adequate lighting. Additionally, standby generators should be arranged to ensure uninterrupted power supply during the events.

Representatives from Hindu religious organisations and Puja committees present at the meeting expressed their approval of the security measures, thanking the government and police for their efforts in facilitating a safe and peaceful celebration.