The New Nation - Internet Edition

UNB, Dhaka

Home Adviser Maj Gen (retd) MA Matin yesterday (Thursday night) issued a tough warning against recurrence of last Friday's incidents today (Friday) over the National Women Development Policy.

"We'll be tough if needed. We were tolerant last Friday, but it should not be considered as the government's weakness," he told reporters after a meeting on Law and Order situation at his ministry.

He said a committee, headed by acting Khatib of Baitul Mukarram National Mosque Mufti Noor Uddin, yesterday submitted its recommendations to Religious Affairs Adviser AF Hassan Ariff after reviewing the Women Development Policy.

He said the government would examine those recommendations.

The adviser made it clear that the government would not enact any law contrary to Quran and Sunnah saying that the Women Development Policy is not a law, but only a guideline.

He urged the quarters concerned not to create any law and order situation today (Friday). "The law will take its own course," he said.

Asked if he apprehends any sabotage behind this agitation, the Home Adviser said, "It seems to me some quarters are trying to sabotage."

He said the government would face if attempts are made to stage any situation like that of last Friday.

Radical Islamic parties gave the government until April 17 to cancel the policy, or else, they would announce a greater action programme after Jum'a prayers tomorrow (Friday).

--