Army chief made no remark on indemnity for enforced disappearances or killings: ISPR

The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) has clarified that Army Chief General Waker-uz-Zaman did not, at any point, mention granting indemnity to individuals accused of enforced disappearances, killings, or crimes against humanity during a recent discussion.

In a statement issued today (6 October), the ISPR alleged that a portion of the army chief's recent speech has been distorted and misused on social media to spread false and misleading propaganda. 

The statement said on 30 September, a presentation and study session was held to explore ways to make the army's assistance to the civil administration more effective and dynamic. The event discussed the deployment of army personnel under existing laws and the associated challenges.

The discussion focused on Sections 127–132 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), which define the army's role "In Aid to Civil Power," and examined various aspects of maintaining law and order when the army is granted magistracy powers. The session aimed to help deployed units better understand relevant legal provisions and perform their duties professionally and efficiently through legal, administrative, and institutional guidance.

At one stage, the issue of indemnity (legal immunity) for army members under CrPC Section 132 was raised. The army chief referred to this clause and its inconsistency with the International Crimes (Tribunals) Act, 1973 (amended 2024) as part of his analysis.

The statement noted that under the CrPC, army personnel deployed by government order to control unlawful assemblies operate in accordance with existing laws. Therefore, ensuring legal protection for such duty-bound members is essential. The matter has already been brought to the attention of the relevant government authorities.

The ISPR alleged that a vested quarter — particularly some individuals residing abroad — had deliberately distorted and misrepresented the content of the study session and the army chief's remarks on social media.

"Through such false and misleading posts, they are attempting to create a rift between the patriotic Bangladesh Army and the people," the ISPR said.

Calling for public awareness, it added that the Bangladesh Army has always performed its duties professionally and with discipline, in full compliance with the constitution, state laws, and accountability to the people and will continue to do so.

"A dishonest and conspiratorial group is spreading baseless and misleading propaganda by distorting the army chief's remarks. This campaign is entirely intentional and unfounded," the ISPR stated, urging the public to remain alert against such misinformation and falsehoods.