STAFF CORRESPONDENT

A new app has been developed for reporting incidents that may threaten the security of mandaps during the upcoming Durga Puja, said Home Affairs Adviser Lt Gen (retd) Jahangir Alam Chowdhury yesterday.

Speaking to journalists at the Secretariat after a preparatory meeting on the festival, he said any incident reported through the app will be verified, and arrangements will be made for immediate remedial action.

The adviser said Durga Puja may be held at 31,576 mandaps across the country. Alongside volunteers, police and ansar members will be deployed round the clock at each mandap.

“The BGB has been given the main responsibility for security in border areas. Besides, all law enforcement agencies, including police, Rab, ansar, and the armed forces, will be on constant alert for puja security. About three lakh ansar members will be deployed,” he added.

The adviser also announced restrictions on fairs during the festival. “Ganja and alcohol sessions are very common at the fairs organised in the vicinity of the mandaps. These will not be allowed under any circumstances this time,” he said.

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