Dhaka, May 23 (V7N) — The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) has disclosed that 626 individuals sought refuge in various cantonments across the country following the July-August 2024 student uprising, citing a severe deterioration in law and order at the time.

In a press release issued Thursday night (May 22), the ISPR said that the collapse of the previous government during the uprising led to widespread violence and chaos, including attacks on government installations, police stations, political figures, and civilians, as well as arson, mob justice, theft, and robbery. Amid this lawless environment, people from various professions, fearing for their lives, took shelter in military cantonments.

“Saving the lives of those who sought asylum became the top priority under the extraordinary and unstable conditions, taking precedence over identity verification,” the ISPR stated.

According to the official count, the 626 individuals included:

  • 24 political figures

  • 5 judges

  • 19 civil administration officials

  • 515 police officers and personnel

  • Officials from various public universities

  • 12 other individuals

  • 51 family members (wives and children)

 

 

ISPR clarified that this humanitarian initiative was solely aimed at preventing extrajudicial killings and ensuring temporary safety. Most of the asylum seekers left the cantonments within one to two days. However, five individuals with specific legal charges were handed over to law enforcement agencies in accordance with due process.

An earlier list of 193 individuals (excluding 432 police officers and one NSI official) was submitted to the Ministry of Home Affairs on August 18, 2024, and a press release had also been issued that same day, marking the matter as settled, the ISPR reiterated.

The military authority condemned the spread of “misleading news” by vested quarters aimed at damaging the image of the Bangladesh Army and undermining public trust. It urged the public to remain vigilant against such propaganda.

“The Bangladesh Army remains committed to safeguarding national sovereignty and continues to support the nation with professionalism, dedication, and trust,” the ISPR concluded.

END/MSS/AJ