Dhaka, Dec 21 (V7N) – Religious Affairs Adviser AFM Khalid Hossain has acknowledged that the repeated incidents of mob justice and deterioration of the law-and-order situation reflect a failure of the government, although he insisted that authorities are making efforts to contain the situation and maintain stability.

He made the remarks while responding to questions from journalists at the Secretariat on Sunday.

Condemnation of Mymensingh Incident

Expressing deep regret over the recent incident in Mymensingh, where a boy was allegedly burned to death by a mob, the adviser said such acts are unacceptable and condemnable.

“Under no circumstances can the law be taken into one’s own hands. The government will not accept mob justice,” he said.

He added that a letter has already been sent to the Home Affairs Adviser, directing law enforcement agencies to arrest those involved and bring them to justice.

Action Over Attacks on Media and Cultural Institutions

Responding to questions about recent attacks on Prothom Alo, The Daily Star, and Chhayanot, AFM Khalid Hossain said those responsible would be identified and legal action would be taken.

Asked about a controversial statement by a Shibir leader regarding the Chhayanot attack, he said,
“We do not care who said what. Law and order is now fully under our control.”

However, he acknowledged that isolated incidents are still occurring.

Elections and Stability

The religious affairs adviser said the government is committed to holding fair and inclusive elections, asserting that the necessary environment for such polls exists.

“The government wants stability in the country,” he said. “If mob justice continues and law and order deteriorates, it is undoubtedly the government’s failure. That is why we are trying to prevent such incidents.”

Rejecting allegations that these events are happening with government support, he said such claims are not correct.

END/SMA/AJ