The government has taken strict measures to secure the Bangladesh Secretariat, prohibiting all kinds of meetings and gatherings inside the country’s administrative headquarters.

Anyone wishing to stay inside the Secretariat must notify the Ministry of Home Affairs, according to a notification issued by the Public Security Division on Tuesday.

The notification, signed by Jasim Uddin, joint secretary of the home ministry, said that as the heart of the country's administration, the security of every building within the secretariat is very important.

Therefore, many decisions have been taken to ensure round-the-clock security in every building and premises located inside the secretariat, it added.

Any kind of procession, rally or mass gathering is prohibited inside the secretariat and no unauthorised meeting, gathering and conference of any professional organisation or association will be held in the conference rooms of various ministries or departments located inside the secretariat, it said.

Staying inside the secretariat after 6 pm for urgent official purposes will require notifying the Ministry of Home Affairs, while staying inside on weekends or other holidays for official purposes will require prior approval from the ministry.

The officials and employees working inside the secretariat must keep their entry passes visible.

Distribution of leaflets and hanging or installation of banners or festoons are prohibited in any building or premises inside the secretariat.

The security forces on duty will ensure the security checks of vehicles and individuals upon entry into the secretariat.

The notification instructed everyone to strictly comply with these directives.