Home Adviser Lieutenant General (Retd) Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury-File Photo

DHAKA, Dec 13, 2025 (BSS) - Home Adviser Lieutenant General (Retd) Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury today said the government will issue firearm licences to candidates contesting the upcoming national election if they apply for them.

"We will grant licences to those contesting in the forthcoming national election who wish to have them," he said.

He made the remarks while briefing journalists after a Core Committee meeting on law and order at the Home Ministry in the Bangladesh Secretariat. 

He added that firearms previously deposited with the government will also be returned to the respective candidates.

Referring to the recent attack on Inqilab Manch spokesperson Osman Hadi, the Home Adviser said the government views the incident as an attempt to disrupt the 13th parliamentary elections.

"The Interim Government will not tolerate any attempt to obstruct the national election and such actions will be dealt with firmly," he said.

On security arrangements for candidates, including frontline July Warriors, he said the government will ensure full protection for all. Regarding special security for the July Warriors, he noted that a committee has been formed to assess and arrange necessary measures.

"The committee will provide security to frontline July Warriors after thorough evaluation," he said, adding that the Interim Government is fully committed to their safety.

The Home Adviser also condemned the attack on Osman Hadi and said the government is determined to apprehend the perpetrators swiftly.

"We have instructed law enforcement agencies to bring those responsible to justice. No one involved in the attack will be spared," he said, emphasizing that the matter is being treated as a top priority and urging public cooperation.

In addition, he announced the immediate launch of the second phase of "Operation Devil Hunt" to strengthen efforts against fascist Awami League (AL) terrorists following the attack.

"We have decided to launch phase two of Operation Devil Hunt. The operation will be intensified to effectively neutralize fascist terrorists," he said.

The Home Adviser also announced a cash reward of Tk 50 lakh for anyone providing information that leads to the arrest of those involved in the attack.

Osman Hadi was seriously injured when attacked by motorcycle-riding assailants in the Bijoynagar Box Culvert area of Dhaka on Friday. He is currently receiving treatment at Evercare Hospital.