Bangladesh Army issues statement against distortion of Army Chief’s remarks

The Bangladesh Army has issued a statement condemning the deliberate misrepresentation of the Army Chief’s recent remarks on social media, calling it an intentional campaign to spread misleading information.

The issue was reported by the ISPR in a press release on Monday (6 October).

According to a press release, the Army Chief’s comments were made during a “Study Period” event held on 30 September. The event aimed to explore ways to enhance and streamline the activities of army personnel assisting the civil administration. During the discussion, the deployment of army personnel in accordance with national laws and the challenges they face were highlighted.

The briefing covered sections 127–132 of the Bangladesh Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), which govern the army’s role in “In Aid to Civil Power” operations, as well as the magisterial powers currently granted to the armed forces for maintaining law and order in the field. The main goal of the event was to ensure that army personnel fully understand and correctly apply the relevant legal provisions, thereby carrying out their responsibilities professionally and efficiently.

The discussion also addressed the issue of indemnity under CrPC 132 for personnel deployed in such operations, clarifying its position relative to the International Crimes (Tribunals) Act, 1973 (amended 2024). The statement emphasized that the Army Chief never suggested granting indemnity to anyone accused of enforced disappearances, killings, or other crimes against humanity.

“Unfortunately, certain groups, particularly individuals abroad, have deliberately distorted the Study Period content and the Army Chief’s remarks on social media to mislead the public,” the release said. “Through these posts, they are attempting to create a rift between the patriotic army and the people.”

The Bangladesh Army reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the Constitution, the laws of the state, and its duty to the people with professionalism and discipline. The public has been urged to exercise caution and not be misled by false or distorted information circulating on social media.