The home ministry has said that Ganajagaran Mancha’s agitation in the diplomatic zone violated the Vienna Convention and other international norms.
In a letter to law enforcement agencies, the ministry blamed such activities for undermining the country’s image. “That’s why it has become essential to ensure the highest security in the diplomatic zone,” it added. The letter was signed by the joint secretary of the home ministry, Md Mostafizur Rahman, and addressed to the Inspector General of Police (IGP) and other authorities concerned.
The ministry official further directed security agencies to take measures to prevent political activities, such as demonstrations and processions, near embassies, foreign missions and offices of the UN and other international organisations located across the country.
Sources said envoys had expressed concern to the foreign ministry over security in the diplomatic enclave following the Ganajagaran Mancha’s demonstration near the Pakistan High Commission.
The demonstration was held in protest against the Pakistan Parliament’s resolution on the hanging of Jamaat-e-Islami leader Abdul Quader Molla. The agitators had also expressed concern over the spiralling violence in the country triggered by Opposition-sponsored hartal and blockades to demand poll under a neutral administration.
State minister for home affairs, Shamsul Haque Tuku. told The Independent that the government was determined to provide security to ensure protection of diplomats and all offices of international organisations. “Law enforcement and intelligence agencies have taken security measures for their safety so that nobody can create any problem,” he said.
Sources said the home ministry has written a separate letter to law enforcement and intelligence agencies to deploy adequate forces at the Pakistan High Commission, the residences of diplomats from that country and Pakistani enterprises.
According to the letter, the home ministry directed intelligence agencies to maintain extra vigil on Pakistani diplomats during their movements so that no miscreant can cause any harm to them.
As per the Vienna Convention, any kind of political activity is banned in diplomatic zones.
-With The Independent input
