Bangladesh interim government grants magisterial powers to Army for internal security
- In Reports
- 11:13 AM, Sep 18, 2024
- Myind Staff
The interim government of Bangladesh has granted magisterial powers to the army, significantly expanding its authority in maintaining internal security across the country. The directive, issued late on Tuesday by the Ministry of Public Administration, allows the army to exercise these powers nationwide for the next 60 days, according to the order obtained by ANI.
This delegation of authority specifies that only commissioned officers of the Bangladesh Army can function as Special Executive Magistrates under Sections 12 (1) and 17 of The Code of Criminal Procedure 1898. The army confirmed the implementation of these new powers. "The news of magistracy power is correct," said Lt Col Sami ud Doula Chowdhury, director of the Inter Services Public Relations Directorate (ISPR).
This development follows the recent ousting of Sheikh Hasina as Prime Minister after weeks of violent protests led by students. The protests, which resulted in over 600 deaths, culminated in Hasina fleeing to India on August 5. Nobel Peace Prize laureate Muhammad Yunus has since taken charge as the head of an interim government.
Under Sheikh Hasina’s government, the army had been deployed nationwide following the imposition of a curfew on July 19 to assist civil authorities in controlling unrest. Now, the army’s role has been further expanded under the interim administration.
A senior army general outlined the responsibilities of the Bangladesh Army, stating, "The army’s primary responsibility is to protect Bangladesh's sovereignty and territorial integrity." He also emphasised the army's involvement in "nation-building activities, disaster management, and internal security duties in aid of civil power."
The general further highlighted the army’s international reputation, noting its commendable performance in UN peacekeeping missions and other global initiatives, bolstering its standing as a respected force on the world stage.
Image source: ANI
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