Their joy of Eid is to be on duty

Police officials all over the nation performed their duties at their assigned workplaces to help ensure public safety and proper social distancing measures today to ensure a safe celebration of Eid-ul-Fitr.

With the coronavirus pandemic ravaging the country, police officials have been tasked with not only the security duties but also to ensure proper social distancing measures. They were also engaged in relief distribution and emergency response works.

The Business Standard spoke with a number of police officials on how they passed their Eid-ul-Fitr during this time of the national and global crisis.

Mir Sohel Rana, assistant inspector general of police at the police headquarters, said, "This time, we will spend our Eid on the streets dealing with an invisible enemy."

"Many of us are staying outside homes to keep our families safe."

Additional Superintendent of Police Saiful Islam Shantu, who is currently deployed in Central Police Hospital in Rajarbag, passed his Eid day wearing heavy uniform, goggles and face shield to ensure the treatment of his colleagues.

Saiful Islam did his duty on Eid day with a smiling face. 

He said, "Family is the most cherished place where we love to spend our Eid day. But I am happy that I can serve my fellow policemen on this day."

"We discharged at least 106 cops on Monday who got cured from Covid-19."

"Saying goodbye to them with a flower is my actual Eid, my happiness," added Saiful.

Jahidul Islam, assistant commissioner of DMP's Motijheel zone, was deployed to ensure social distancing in front of the national mosque on Eid day.

"I could wear a Panjabi but could not stay at home with my loving children. In the morning, they wanted me to stay home. But it is my call of duty and I had to join my work," said Jahidul.

A large number of female police officers also passed their Eid day on the job.

Abida Sultana, superintendent of police of Lalmonirhat, was working at her assigned duty at the district. 

"It was not pleasant to pass the Eid day away from the family. But I also feel strong that I am doing something for the people of the district," said Abida.

Back on March 21, the first cluster zone of coronavirus had been identified in Capital's Tolarbag area. The police were the first to respond to and tackle the situation.

No matter whether the situation is a Covid-19 case or a small burglary, police have to be the first responders.

Even on the Eid day, there was a patrol team in the Tolarbagh residential area to keep watch on the area to help disperse public gatherings and maintain social distancing.