The request was formally communicated by Bangladesh's Home Affairs Ministry, led by Lt. Gen. Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury (Retd.), in a bid to ensure respect for Islamic practices during Durga Puja, which coincides with the peak hours of Muslim prayers. Puja committees have reportedly accepted the government's call to refrain from playing music during the specified times, in a gesture of communal solidarity. Chowdhury emphasized that these measures aim to foster peace and mutual respect between the majority Muslim and minority Hindu populations.
This year, approximately 32,666 Durga Puja pandals are set to be constructed across the country, which slightly falls from the previous year’s figure of 33,431. Security at all pandal sites is being ramped up, starting from the early stages of idol creation to ensure the smooth running of the event. Law enforcement agencies will be deployed around the clock to safeguard the festivities from potential threats or disruptions, following a history of communal tensions that sometimes flare during these occasions.
Amid preparations for the festival, Bangladesh has also seen tensions rise due to various political and economic developments. One of the more controversial issues leading up to the event has been the restriction on the export of hilsa fish to neighboring India. Traditionally, Bangladesh exports large quantities of the popular ilish fish to West Bengal during Durga Puja. However, the current administration, led by Muhammad Yunus, decided to halt these exports, a move that has led to dissatisfaction in India. The restriction has significantly impacted the fish market in India, particularly in Bengal, where ilish is considered an essential part of Durga Puja celebrations.
Bangladesh’s caretaker government, which has come under scrutiny from various sectors, remains committed to ensuring the smooth conduct of Durga Puja while addressing communal sensitivities. The authorities have underscored that while religious and cultural celebrations are vital, respecting the religious practices of others is equally important to maintaining societal harmony.
Security remains a top concern during the festival, especially given the sporadic outbreaks of violence in past years, often stemming from political unrest or religious tensions. While the Yunus-led government has been proactive in its approach, there is apprehension among certain sections of society about the future of religious harmony, particularly as political conditions in the country remain volatile.