Dhaka, Oct 06 (V7N) – The Bangladesh Army has condemned what it described as the intentional distortion and spread of misleading information on social media regarding a recent remark by the Army Chief about the legal immunity of personnel deployed in aid to civil power.

In a statement issued on Monday (October 6), the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) clarified that certain social media users are circulating false and fabricated claims, attempting to misrepresent the Army Chief’s comments made during a research presentation on September 30.

According to ISPR, the presentation—part of a study session aimed at enhancing the efficiency of the army’s civil assistance operations—focused on the deployment of armed forces under existing national laws and the legal and administrative challenges involved. The discussion particularly covered the provisions of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) Sections 127–132, which govern the army’s authority when acting “In Aid to Civil Power.”

During the session, the issue of legal immunity under CrPC 132 for army personnel engaged in such duties was discussed. The Army Chief reportedly highlighted the conflict between this provision and the International Crimes (Tribunals) Act, 1973 (Amended 2024), stressing the need to ensure adequate legal protection for soldiers lawfully performing their duties in the field.

“The Army Chief did not, at any point, make any statement suggesting immunity for anyone accused of disappearances, murder, or crimes against humanity,” the ISPR emphasized.

The statement further alleged that a malicious group, including some individuals living abroad, is deliberately spreading distorted interpretations of the discussion to create division between the army and the people.

Reaffirming its commitment to the Constitution, state laws, and the people of Bangladesh, the ISPR said the Bangladesh Army continues to perform its duties with professionalism, discipline, and accountability.

The military’s media wing urged the public to remain vigilant against intentional misinformation propagated by dishonest and hostile groups, and to rely only on verified and official sources for information concerning the armed forces.

END/SMA/AJ