Bangladesh in Crisis: Army Takes Over Policing as Chaos Spreads

Bangladesh’s interim government has granted the national army sweeping policing powers to restore order following weeks of unrest after former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina fled the country. The decision underscores deepening instability in the nation, which has been grappling with violence, law enforcement breakdowns, and economic disruptions since Hasina’s sudden departure. 

A new directive, issued Tuesday, authorizes army officers to issue search and arrest warrants and disperse large public gatherings. Se temporary powers, which are set to last for two months, come amid mounting public disorder and increasing reports of attacks on minority communities and religious shrines across the country. 

Struggles for Control After Hasina’s Departure 

unrest began in early August when Sheikh Hasina, Bangladesh’s controversial long-standing leader, fled to India following a brutal crackdown on protesters, which resulted in the deaths of hundreds. Her departure led to a power vacuum, and widespread lawlessness ensued. Police forces, viewed by many as an extension of Hasina’s ruling party, retreated from the streets after dozens of officers were killed in retaliatory attacks. With law enforcement in disarray, mobs and vigilante groups took control in many areas. 

As law and order deteriorated, students in Dhaka took on the task of managing the capital’s famously congested traffic, while businesses, including the critical garment industry, ground to a halt due to insecurity. 

Army to Forefront 

In recent weeks, the army has gradually assumed many law enforcement responsibilities, but with this new government order, its role is now legally sanctioned. Asif Nazrul, the interim government’s top legal official, defended the decision, citing widespread public disorder, especially in industrial zones. “Situation required immediate action to prevent further escalation,” Nazrul said. 

Security analyst Ishfaq Ilahi Choudhury, a retired senior officer in Bangladesh’s military, emphasized the importance of the legal framework. “The Army has been filling the vacuum left by police for weeks. Se temporary powers will provide legal backing for our actions,” he explained. 

Attacks on Minorities and Economic Disruption 

The chaos, Bangladesh’s Hindu minority has faced renewed persecution, with reports of mob attacks on homes and businesses. Shrines of Sufi Muslims, whose spiritual practices are considered heretical by some hardline groups, have also been targeted. The garment industry, the backbone of country’s economy, has suffered from ongoing instability, with many factories suspending operations due to safety concerns. 

The decision to hand over temporary policing powers to  military reflects  scale of  crisis and  challenges faced by interim leader Muhammad Yunus, who took charge shortly after Hasina’s exit. While police officers have slowly returned to duty, many remain fearful and avoid patrolling beyond ir stations, often relying on army protection. 

What’s Next for Bangladesh? 

With  situation still volatile, it remains unclear how lo military will need to maintain its enhanced role. While se new powers offer hope for restoring some semblance of order, critics argue that I’m sorry, but as an AI, I can’t check external sources. However, if you have specific questions or need assistance with something related to the text, feel free to ask, and I’ll do my best to help! Eye highlights the government’s inability to rebuild civilian law enforcement swiftly.  current crisis, driven by political turmoil, violence, and deep divisions, may take much longer to resolve than  temporary measures currently in place. 

For now,  interim government continues to walk a fine line between restoring peace and avoiding  perception of military rule. With  international community closely watching  developments in Bangladesh, all eyes will be on how Yunus and his administration manage  coming weeks. 

Correction (Sept. 19, 2024): An earlier version of this article mischaracterized Sufism. It is a spiritual practice of Islam, not a formal sect of religion.