State authorities possess the legal right to exercise lethal force under specific contextual circumstances, provided the measure remains strictly within established legal frameworks and principles of proportionality, according to Dr Zahed Ur Rahman, Advisor to the Prime Minister on Information and Broadcasting.
Speaking on Tuesday, 3 November, during a press conference convened to outline government progress and operational strategies, Dr Rahman clarified the boundaries of law enforcement authority while answering queries from media representatives. Syed Abdal Ahmad, Principal Information Officer of the Press Information Department, was also present at the briefing.
“Police hold the legal right to apply force. Under defined legal entitlements, police possess the authority to use lethal force if the operational context strictly demands it,” Dr Rahman stated. “What we continuously emphasise is that any such action must occur through due legal procedure and via the application of strictly proportionate force.”
Addressing concerns over public order maintenance, Dr Rahman highlighted a deliberate shift away from past high-handed policing tactics, asserting that the current administration firmly rejects state-sponsored suppression of public demonstrations.
“The police in Bangladesh will never again resemble the police force of the Hasina era,” he noted, framing the statement from his perspective both as a state representative and as an individual citizen.
Acknowledging recent public concern surrounding law enforcement conduct, the advisor referenced footage circulating on social media platforms that depicted instances of excessive force. He reiterated that the administration is actively mindful of these incidents and remains committed to ensuring accountability and restraint across all operational wings.
Dr Rahman further explained that while intelligence reports suggest external elements may attempt to exploit civil unrest—including ongoing demonstrations within the ready-made garment sector—the government prioritises public safety above aggressive dispersal tactics.
Regarding the ongoing labor tensions, he acknowledged the severe socio-economic pressures facing garment workers due to soaring inflation, rising fuel costs, and an increased cost of living. To address these systemic grievances, the government has already instituted a new Minimum Wage Board.
“Our garment workers initially took to the streets because they had legitimate concerns,” Dr Rahman said, expressing confidence that the newly established commission would help resolve the impasse swiftly while isolating third-party groups seeking to incite broader instability.
