Authorities at Dhaka Cantonment have imposed restriction on the movement of civilians inside its territory effective from January 1 next year.In a notice, the cantonment authorities directed people, who need entry to the cantonment area, to collect passes from the Cantonment Board by December 31. The authorities also said that all those living inside the cantonment should collect temporary residential pass for their relatives, caretakers, guards, drivers, or domestic helps. People who are living adjacent to the cantonment area will also have to collect transit pass for their movement from Matikata-Zia colony-MP check post and Rojonigandha super market-Sainik club check post. The notice also says if any absconding or convicted criminal lives in any house inside the cantonment area, the house owner has to take sole responsibility.

According to the notice, the cantonment authorities will take legal action for trespassing if anyone enters the cantonment area without permission.

It also said that no political activity will be allowed inside the cantonment area.

When contacted, Chief Executive Officer of Dhaka Cantonment Board Abdul Kader told The Independent that the restrictions were imposed on security grounds.

“As per Cantonment Board Act 1924, civilian people are prohibited to enter the cantonment area. To enter a cantonment, a form should be collected from the cantonment board and submitted with details and two passport-size photos. The clearance would be given by the DGFI,” he said.

If anyone wants to take his/her guest inside the cantonment area it is mandatory to get permission from the concerned authority of the cantonment board, Abdul Kader added.