Lieutenant General (Retd.) Jahangir Alam Chowdhury, the Home Affairs Adviser, has called upon people to highlight any mistakes or corruption within the interim government.
On Tuesday, October 29, during a media briefing following his inspection of the Central Jail’s historical preservation and development project in Old Dhaka, he made this statement.
The adviser said, “If there are any mistakes or corruption on our part, please (media) bring them to light. This will help us become more aware and correct ourselves. If we make mistakes, you must point them out, but only if there are genuine issues. Since we are human, mistakes are possible. If there is corruption among us, feel free to report it—I have no objection to that.”
Regarding the jail project, he mentioned that the parking area inside the jail is small and needs expansion. “The road outside the jail must also be widened. If not, traffic congestion will occur, making it difficult for visitors to find parking or move smoothly.”
He added that the project is progressing well, but it must be completed within the allocated budget. “We won’t approve additional funds. There’s a tendency in our country to initially create a budget and then later ask for an increase. That will no longer be allowed. The work must be completed within the existing budget.”
The adviser further stated that part of the project is expected to be completed within the next six months.
In response to a question about road blockades and traffic jams caused by the students of the Seven Colleges, he remarked, “The very people blocking roads are the ones complaining about traffic jams. The same individuals responsible for congestion are talking about the issue. Now tell me, where do I go? Give me a solution.”
He suggested that instead of blocking roads, the students could hold their programs at Suhrawardy Udyan, which would help avoid traffic jams. “Public awareness is necessary in this regard.”
Commenting on Dhaka’s traffic congestion, he noted, “We are also engaging students to help reduce traffic jams. Traffic congestion is a major issue—while roads are not expanding, the number of vehicles is increasing every day. People keep moving to Dhaka for employment, causing population growth. Everyone demands more roads, but no one is willing to give up space.
