Bangladesh Extends Army’s Magistracy Powers Amid Security Concerns

English , International - بین الاقوامی , Snippets , / Tuesday, November 11th, 2025

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Dhaka, November 11 (RKI) – Bangladesh’s interim government has extended the magistracy powers granted to commissioned army officers until February next year, allowing them to continue maintaining law and order across the country.
According to a notification issued by the Ministry of Public Administration on Tuesday, the authority applies nationwide and includes officers on deputation with the Bangladesh Coast Guard and Border Guard Bangladesh. These officers are empowered to arrest individuals, send them to jail, and, if necessary, open fire in self-defense while enforcing public order.
The magistracy powers were first granted following political unrest after the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government on August 5, 2024. Three days later, a caretaker administration was established under the leadership of Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus. Since then, army units have remained deployed nationwide to stabilize the situation.
The Election Commission previously announced plans to deploy around 100,000 troops to ensure security during the upcoming general elections. The Bangladesh Army has stated that it will return to barracks after the country’s 13th general election, scheduled for early 2026.
Authorities say the temporary extension of these powers aims to maintain peace and public safety ahead of the polls, as Bangladesh continues its transition under the interim government.