Committee formed to address demands of Ansar members

The Ministry of Home Affairs, through its Public Security Division, has announced that the government has carefully considered the demands put forth by general Bangladesh Ansar and Village Defence Force (VDP) members. 

In a press release issued today (24 August), the ministry stated that the chief adviser has been briefed on the situation and that initial evaluations of the demands show that some of them may be justified.

In response, the government has decided to assess the current policy that requires general Ansars to take a mandatory break after three years of service. The possibility of allowing them to continue their service without this break will be explored. Additionally, no new recruitments for general Ansars will be made at this time, it said.

To address the concerns in a more detailed manner, a committee led by the director general of Ansar and VDP, alongside representatives from the general Ansars, has been formed. This committee has been tasked with reviewing all the demands and formulating recommendations within the next seven working days.

Upon receiving the committee’s report, an inter-ministerial body will further examine the recommendations. They will devise an implementation plan and submit their findings to the government for subsequent action.

The ministry has expressed confidence that this process will lead to a fair and acceptable resolution of the General Ansars’ concerns. However, it has also emphasised the importance of maintaining discipline within the force. The statement reminded all Ansar members of the need to uphold the integrity and reputation of their traditional and disciplined organisation.

In light of recent unrest, the ministry urged all general Ansars to return to their respective duties.

The ministry also warned that a small group of instigators has been attempting to disrupt order within the force.

The government has made it clear that it will not hesitate to take legal action against those responsible for such actions if necessary, the release added.