Ansar-VDP sets new benchmark in tech-driven security during Durga Puja
Staff Correspondent
The Bangladesh Ansar and Village Defence Party (VDP) successfully concluded a comprehensive and technology-driven security operation across the country during Durga Puja 2026, ensuring peaceful celebrations, maintaining communal harmony, and establishing a new model for public safety.
Under the direct guidance and close supervision of Director General Major General Abdul Motaleb Sajjad Mahmud, the force deployed 212,818 personnel across 33,165 puja mandaps nationwide. To address emergencies, 104 striking force teams comprising 624 battalion members were kept on standby.
The force implemented a three-tier security system utilizing advanced digital tools, including the AVMIS software for transparent selection, STDMS for orderly deployment, and the ‘Shardiya Suraksha App’ for real-time monitoring. Around 66,330 female Ansar-VDP members operated as end-users of the app, reporting incidents directly from mandaps to enable swift coordination with the police, local administration, and puja celebration committees.
According to Ansar headquarters, members took preventive and immediate action in 131 incidents nationwide, including thwarting 20 vandalism attempts, resolving 36 disputes, preventing two arson cases, and handling 13 drug-related offenses. Additionally, personnel detained 49 miscreants across 24 incidents, arrested six individuals for theft, recovered stolen valuables in 15 instances, and rescued 15 missing children to reunite them with their families.
Four Ansar-VDP members lost their lives and 17 others were injured or fell ill while performing their duties during the festival.
Exchanging greetings at the Dhakeshwari National Temple on October 20, the Director General praised the sacrifice of the deceased members and highlighted the shift toward a public service-oriented and accountable force.
He emphasized that the collaborative approach and tech-integrated framework executed during Durga Puja will serve as a vital blueprint for managing security during future major national events and elections.
