Armed Forces' magistracy powers extended

The government has extended the executive magistracy powers granted to officers of the Armed Forces by another 60 days-the fifth such extension-to help maintain law and order across the country.

The extension will take effect on July 14, the public administration ministry said in a notification issued on Sunday, reports bdnews24.com.

The powers were first granted on Sept 17, 2024, for a two-month term to Army officers deployed in the field alongside law-enforcing agencies. The Armed Forces have been deployed with magistracy powers since September last year. They respond swiftly to any public unrest or attempts to break the law.

However, despite their presence under the interim government, several untoward incidents have occurred, including some that resulted in deaths.

The powers were first granted on Sept 17, 2024, for a two-month term to Army officers deployed on the ground alongside law-enforcing agencies.

Troops had already been deployed across the country even before the Awami League government was ousted by a student-led mass uprising. After the government's fall on Aug 5, 2024, and the lifting of the nationwide curfew, the Armed Forces remained in the field to help stabilise the law and order situation. Later, they also engaged in joint operations.