While at this point we cannot definitively lay our fingers on any individual or group for the murder, it is difficult to de-link the killing from the recent hanging of the JMB members.

The killing has taken place at a time when the administration, only the other day said that, with the hanging of the six top JMB leaders followed by several arrests of other lesser cadres of JMB and number of others of similar outfit, the networking of the extremist religious groups had been "weakened". This incident however tells us that may be not all is over with the extremist cadre, its organizational capacity or for that matter of any other extremist organisations in Bangladesh that might be lying in wait for an opportune moment to make their appearance. Apparently, no heed was paid to the threats made to the PP by the law enforcing agencies. We fail to understand why.

It is our conviction that of all the existing law and order problems in the country the most threatening is religious extremism. It is not only a serious threat to our security but has also the potential of breaking the very backbone of our nation. We must not forget, the exponents of this particular brand of terrorism are no ordinary criminals. Not only must we enhance vigilance at all levels these elements must be pursued and be dealt with in an extraordinary way.

It must be remembered that these vendors of religious extremism, unlike others, work from a strong ideological base. Success in dealing with the religious extremists will also largely depend on having access to authentic and proper intelligence . In line with that we must also provide protection to all members of the public whose services we may call upon in fighting against these elements.