Bangladesh is \\\'taking purported al-Qaeda message seriously\\\'

The government is taking the purported message from the al-Qaeda chief announcing the formation of an Indian branch and working in Bangladesh among other countries, report agencies.

Speaking in his office on Thursday, Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal said, "We've learnt that after the message India has issued a red alert. We are also taking the matter seriously."

Reports in the international media said on Wednesday that a video had been posted online showing the terror group leader Ayman al-Zawahri announcing the formation of an Indian branch of his militant group.

He was saying there he would spread Islamic rule and "raise the flag of jihad" across the subcontinent.

Zawahri described the formation of "Al Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent" as "glad tidings" for Muslims "in Burma, Bangladesh, Assam, Gujarat, Ahmedabad, and Kashmir".

He said the new wing would rescue Muslims there from "injustice and oppression".

State minister Kamal said the government was trying to verify the video and the cabinet would discuss future steps after it was done.

"We've taken the matter seriously and are examining the source of the news. We'll come up with an official reaction tomorrow (Friday) in this connection," said the minister while talking to reporters at the Secretariat.

Asaduzzaman further said, "Earlier, we took various measures to prevent militant activities and this effort will continue."

In the 55-minute video posted online, Zawahari pledged renewed loyalty to Afghan Taliban leader Mullah Omar.