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Bangladesh Army on Monday said that there was no scope to belittle any freedom fighter or the Liberation War by creating mobs.

Colonel Staff Md Shafiqul Islam, director of military operations, made the remark while replying to a reporter’s question at a press briefing in Dhaka Cantonment.

The army officer also clarified that they had  no involvement in the Dhaka University Central Students’ Union elections.

Colonel Shafiqul emphasised that the country was born through the great Liberation War and that the army continues to hold deep respect for all freedom fighters.

‘As we have always respected our freedom fighters, we continue to do so today and will keep honouring them in the future.’ there is no scope to belittle the Liberation War or its veterans by creating mobs, he said.

Regarding the incident of mob creation in front of freedom fighter Fazlur Rahman’s Segunbagicha residence, he stated that as soon as the army received the message, they rushed to the location and brought the situation under control. ‘The army is committed to maintaining order and the situation will improve further in the coming days.’

Shafiqul also said that there was zero tolerance for mob violence. ‘Wherever and whenever mobs formed, the army responded quickly and controlled the situation. In a few instances where there was a delay, it was due to delays in receiving information from sources.’

He clarified that law enforcement agencies were first deployed to any scene, and only upon request did the army intervene.

Amid rising concerns over deteriorating law and order, including several recent killings and an attack on the residence of veteran politician Kader Siddique, the official reiterated that the army was working with patience and dedication.

‘Maintaining law and order is not solely the army’s responsibility. The army does not have judiciary powers and cannot sentence anyone. Coordination among all agencies is essential, and work is already underway in this regard,’ he continued.

In response to another question on inter-agency coordination, he explained that delays could occur when initial responding forces fail to control the situation and the army was informed too late. ‘In some cases, even the police are unaware of incidents as they occur. We are making efforts to improve the overall law and order situation.’

Asked about the gruesome incident in Rajbari where the body of Nurul Haque alias ‘Nural Pagla’ was taken and burned, and attacks occurred on a religious site, he said that as soon as the army was informed, troops were deployed and brought the situation under control. ‘Efforts are ongoing, in coordination with the police, to arrest those involved.’

Responding to questions from journalists regarding law and order, social media rumours and the DUCSU election, he said that the Army had no role in the DUCSU election.  ‘We have already made this clear through ISPR. Still, some vested quarters are trying to spread propaganda, but they will not gain much from it.’

He said that the army wished well for all the participating candidates and hoped the election would be held in a healthy environment, strengthening democratic practices.