Army handling the matter with sensitivity

Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) yesterday said any provocative actions, anti-public behaviour, or activities that tarnish the reputation of the force are never "desirable".

ISPR issued the statement last night in response to a demonstration by members of the armed forces who were dismissed or relieved of duty. They gathered in front of Jatiya Press Club yesterday, demanding reinstatement and other benefits.

The Bangladesh Army is handling the matter with "utmost patience, compassion, and sensitivity in all aspects," the statement said. It urged all to act responsibly with respect for the constitutional structure and discipline.

In an effort to seek a peaceful resolution, a delegation from the Bangladesh Army visited the press club and listened to their statements. The delegation assured that the demands would be verified and resolved in accordance with military regulations. They advised that complaints should be submitted directly to the relevant authorities, not through any third party or under any organisational banner.

As of May 14, 2025, the Bangladesh Army had received a total of 802 applications of this nature. Of these, 106 have been resolved, while the remaining are under consideration.

"However, regrettably, some unfortunate incidents today [Sunday] have raised concerns about the traditions and values of this disciplined force. Following two successful meetings, as the delegation was departing, a group of unruly dismissed military personnel incited others to obstruct the delegation's vehicle, throw bricks and stones at law enforcement officers, and chant inappropriate slogans," the ISPR statement said.

"Throughout the day, the army exercised maximum patience and empathy to control the situation, but at one stage, law enforcement had to disperse a number of disorderly former members," it added.

Earlier in the day, several hundred protesters, including family members, began their demonstration in front of the press club. They later attempted to march towards Jahangir Gate of Dhaka Cantonment but were stopped by police. The protesters then returned and regrouped at the press club.

Speaking to reporters, many demonstrators claimed they had been unfairly dismissed and denied rightful benefits during the previous government's tenure.

Mehedi Hasan, a protester, said he joined the army in 2017 but was dismissed in 2023 following an altercation over a leave request. "I was not given any benefits at the time," he said.