"We did not get his (Galib) name in investigations. Our emphasis is now on arresting Abdur Rahman and Bangla Bhai and the government is serious about it", he told a press briefing.

The issue of Galib's involvement in militancy is yet to be resolved, Babar said replying to questions from journalists after attending the Rajshahi Divisional meeting on law and order.

Divisional Commissioner Musleh Uddin chaired the meeting held at the deputy commissioner's conference room.

It was attended by Home Secretary Safar Raj Hossain, Cabinet Division Joint Secretary Mustafa Kamal Haider, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Abdul Quaiyum, additional IGP (Special Branch) Farruk Al Chowdhury, the DIG of Rajshahi range, Bangladesh Rifles (BDR) commanders of Rajshahi, Dianajpur and Rangpur sectors, acting commander of Rajshahi Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), deputy commissioners (DCs) and superintendents of police (SPs) from 16 districts.

The state minister instructed all concerned to submit charge sheet in the August 17 cases as early as possible after proper investigation to expedite the trial and conviction of those involved, meeting sources said.

"Bangladesh is known as a liberal Muslim country but the serial blasts damaged our image abroad. The incident also hampered foreign investment. We cannot let the culprits go unpunished," Babar said.

He however claimed substantial improvement of law and order despite the blasts.

The state minister ordered stepping up security during the Ramadan, Durga Puja and Eid and asked police, Rab and BDR to make unified and coordinated efforts for this.

The DCs and SPs of Rajshahi, Naogaon and Bogra told the state minister at the meeting that the officials who were on duty during Bangla Bhai's anti-outlaw actions did not properly investigate cases of murders and tortures by him (Bangla Bhai) and his men.

Bogra SP Motiur Rahman Sheikh said Qaumi madrasas should be under close watch of the government so that their students could not get involved in militant activities.

The officials also told of their problems -- shortage of magistrates, lack of chemical laboratory, vehicles etc.

Later, Babar met local leaders of the ruling alliance and sought their cooperation in strengthening the coalition and improving law and order.