Home Affairs Adviser Lt Gen (Retd) Jahangir Alam Chowdhury has said that the army opened fire in Gopalganj due to the prevailing situation.
He assured that Section 144 would be gradually lifted in the district, and no mass arrests were taking place.
He made the remarks on Sunday while speaking to reporters at the Secretariat following a meeting with law enforcement officials, including army representatives.
Responding to a question about the army`s firing during the recent unrest, the adviser said, “Actions must be taken based on the situation at the time.”
Clashes broke out last Wednesday between Awami League activists and law enforcement in Gopalganj during a rally by the National Citizens` Party (NCP). Both police and army personnel were seen firing during the violent incident, which led to the imposition of curfew. The curfew has since been lifted, but Section 144 remains in place. At least five people were reported killed in the clashes.
The adviser said, “Section 144 will be lifted gradually. Those who committed wrongdoing will be arrested. I have clearly said no offender should go unpunished, and no innocent person should be arrested.”
He acknowledged the political nature of the events, stating, “Politics involves such incidents. Even during our time in student politics, many things happened. What matters is the action taken afterward.”
When asked why no case had yet been filed over the deaths, he said, “A committee has been formed. Based on their findings, police will decide whether to file a case.”
He denied reports of mass arrests and said only offenders were being detained. On claims that nine children were among those arrested in Gopalganj, he said he had no such information and asked for clarification.
Regarding Sunday’s hartal by the banned Chhatra League, the adviser confirmed the occurrence of arson involving two vehicles but noted the damage was less than in past strikes.
He expressed confidence that law enforcement would be prepared to maintain order during the upcoming national elections, tentatively scheduled for February or April 2026.
