The government has announced a set of major legal and security initiatives aimed at modernising outdated legislation, strengthening border management and intensifying efforts to combat domestic crime, Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed said on Tuesday.
Briefing journalists at the Ministry of Home Affairs in Dhaka, the minister said a new law is being drafted to replace the long-standing Gambling Act of 1867. The proposed legislation is expected to be placed before the upcoming parliamentary session. According to him, the revised framework will specifically address modern forms of gambling, including online betting and related financial crimes such as money laundering, which he described as increasingly transnational in nature.
The minister noted that existing laws are insufficient to deal with emerging digital gambling networks. He also warned that any unauthorised gambling activities at local fairs or cultural events would face strict action. Authorities will investigate whether local administrations have failed to prevent such activities despite standing instructions, he added.
On border management, the home minister said Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) has been placed on heightened alert to prevent illegal “push-in” and “pushback” incidents. He stressed that any repatriation of individuals must follow proper procedures, including identity verification through the National ID system in coordination with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Security operations against militant or criminal hideouts, particularly in areas such as Jungle Salimpur, will continue under a zero-tolerance policy, he said. However, he added that those displaced by state development projects would be properly rehabilitated.
The minister also highlighted ongoing efforts to address crime, drug abuse, and congestion in Dhaka’s Mohammadpur area. Legal reforms related to drug control are also being considered to prevent offenders from easily securing bail or early release.
Regarding a reported case involving child deaths at Ad-din Hospital, he said post-mortem examinations are essential for ensuring legal clarity and preventing evidentiary gaps in court proceedings. He emphasised the government’s commitment to ensuring speedy trials in such sensitive cases.
When asked about a possible cabinet reshuffle, the minister declined to comment, stating that such matters fall under the Prime Minister’s jurisdiction.
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