The magistracy powers granted to commissioned officers of the Bangladesh Army will greatly benefit the public, said Home Affairs Adviser Lt Gen (retd) Jahangir Alam Chowdhury. He made this statement on Wednesday following the closing parade of the 40th BCS (Ansar) Cadre Officers and the 25th Batch (Male) Recruit Sepoy Basic Training at the Bangladesh Ansar and VDP Academy in Safipur, Gazipur.
He said, “The army has long been serving in the field, working closely with the people. Granting them magistracy powers will help in maintaining law and order and enhance their public service capabilities, especially given the current shortage of law enforcement personnel.”
The adviser highlighted the critical role the army plays in supporting civilian authorities, stressing that the decision comes as law enforcement agencies face significant manpower shortages. “The army is stepping in to address that gap,” he added, reinforcing the importance of their expanded role.
When asked about the army’s relationship with the public, the home affairs adviser emphasised that the Bangladesh Army is a disciplined and people-friendly force, and that there should be no hesitation for the general public to seek assistance from them.
‘Disciplinary action to be taken against absent police officers’
Home Affairs Adviser Lt Gen (retd) Jahangir Alam Chowdhury on Wednesday emphasised a firm stance on police officers absent from duty between August 1 and September 17, 2024.
He made the remark following the closing parade of the 40th BCS (Ansar) Cadre Officers and the 25th Batch (Male) Recruit Sepoy Basic Training at the Bangladesh Ansar and VDP Academy in Safipur, Gazipur.
“Those who have not returned to duty will not be allowed back, and we are taking both disciplinary and legal actions against them,” he said, clarifying that the number of absent police officers is small.
He added that most of these officers are involved in misconduct and urged for collective efforts to bring them to justice.
On Tuesday, the Bangladesh Police disclosed that 187 officers have been absent from duty between August 1 and September 17, 2024.
This includes one deputy inspector general (DIG), seven additional deputy inspector generals (ADIGs), two superintendents of police (SPs), and officers of various other ranks.
Of these absentees, 96 are on extended leave, 49 are absent without leave (AWOL), three have voluntarily resigned, and 39 are absent for other reasons.
'Reforms will turn Ansar, VDP into skilled force'
The Bangladesh Ansar and Village Defense Party (VDP) will undergo significant reforms to become a skilled, well-organized, and professional force, according to Home Affairs Adviser Lt Gen (retd) Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury.
Speaking at a ceremony at the Bangladesh Ansar and VDP Academy in Shafipur, Gazipur, the adviser emphasised the government's commitment to taking all necessary steps to achieve this reform.
The adviser highlighted the vital role played by the Ansar force throughout Bangladesh’s history, particularly during times of national crisis. He noted that Ansar members have consistently demonstrated deep patriotism and have been instrumental in maintaining law and order, as well as contributing to the country's overall development. "The force has played a special role in ensuring the security of critical infrastructure and diplomatic areas," he said.
Reflecting on the past, the adviser pointed out that following the fall of the autocratic government during the anti-discrimination student movement, Ansar members bravely safeguarded key installations such as police stations, traffic points, and airports, often risking their lives. He specifically praised the Ansar Guard Battalion for securing police stations within the Dhaka Metropolitan area and ensuring the safety of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport.
He also acknowledged the courage of Ansar members stationed at state guest house Jamuna, who continued their duties despite a shortage of police personnel. "I extend my heartfelt thanks and gratitude to all members of this force for their courageous contributions in times of national emergency," he added.
The adviser also commended the voluntary Village Defense Party (VDP) members, who are spread across every village in Bangladesh, for their significant role in maintaining peace and security. He praised their efforts in addressing recent social security crises in rural areas and their vigilant actions against attempts to incite communal unrest. "VDP members stood as a barrier against those who sought to spread communal poison by attacking temples, churches, and other places of worship. They protected these religious sites and fostered harmony within the minority communities," he said.
Looking ahead, the adviser expressed hope that VDP members, as organized and youth-driven volunteers, would continue to play an even greater role in the country's socio-economic development and social security.
During the parade, the adviser took the salute and presented awards to the outstanding trainees.
Dr Mohammad Abdul Momen, Senior Secretary of the Public Security Division of the Ministry of Home Affairs and Major General Abdul Motaleb Sajjad Mahmood, Director General of the Bangladesh Ansar and VDP, among others, were present at the event.
