Section 144 enforced in Habiganj municipality vicinities
Graphics: Agamir Somoy
The local administration has imposed Section 144 in the Habiganj municipality area amid calls for counter-programmes by activists of the BNP and the National Citizens Party (NCP). The decision was taken by the upazila administration on Wednesday.
Earlier on Tuesday, the order was issued through a public notification signed by the Deputy Commissioner and District Magistrate, Dr. G.M. Sarfaraz.
According to the order, Section 144 will remain in force in the Habiganj municipality area from 3:00 PM on Monday until further notice.
The district administration's order stated that the NCP had announced a protest rally in the Habiganj municipality area. At the same time, the district Chhatra Dal and its affiliated organisations had also announced programmes. With the likelihood of large gatherings of activists from both sides, there were concerns that tensions, clashes, damage to life and property, and a deterioration of law and order could occur at any time. In this context, Section 144 was imposed as a preventive measure to ensure public safety and maintain peace and order.
As per the order, no meetings, rallies, processions, protests, or public gatherings are permitted at designated locations within the Habiganj municipality area, including the municipal ground, Tinkona Pukurpar, Shaistanganj, Cinema Hall Road, Chowdhury Bazar, Town Hall Road, Court Station area, and the DC office premises. Carrying bricks, stones, sticks, local weapons, or any items that could disrupt law and order has also been prohibited.
The notification further stated that the order was issued under the powers conferred by Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898, and shall remain in force until further notice. Legal action will be taken against violators.
Earlier, following the attack on central NCP leaders yesterday the party had announced protest programmes across the country. As part of that, the NCP had called for a protest rally at the Habiganj municipal ground at 3:00 PM. On the other hand, the Chhatra Dal and its affiliated organisations had also announced programmes at the same time, creating tension in the city. Considering the situation, the district administration imposed Section 144 to maintain law and order.
