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from headquarters, the situation may already have deteriorated,” he said.

“Wherever there was a delay on our part, it happened because we received information late. Sometimes our nearest camp can be 20 kilometres away. We cannot place camps at every kilometre. We try our utmost, but it is not possible to be at every doorstep,” he added.

Col Shafiqul said maintaining law and order was not solely the army’s duty. While the force has magistracy powers to arrest, detain and hand suspects to police, it cannot impose judicial punishment.

Referring to a mob attack outside a freedom fighter’s home, he said troops were sent immediately after receiving the message. “No mob or disorder can diminish the dignity of our freedom fighters,” he added.

The colonel reaffirmed that the army maintains “zero tolerance” towards mob violence and such incidents will reduce in the coming days.

On misinformation, he said groups with vested interest were spreading “disinformation, falsehoods and propaganda” on social media against the army, which he described as “undesirable and embarrassing”.

He urged the media to ensure accurate reporting and resist efforts to undermine public trust in the army.

In reply to a query on the Dhaka University Central Students’ Union election, he reiterated: “The army has no role in this election. Still, some quarters are attempting to spread propaganda linking us with it, but this will not succeed.”

Regarding the national election, he said the army has not yet received any formal directive from the Election Commission, though preparations are underway. “We will carry out whatever duties are given to us with the highest professionalism,” he affirmed.

Col Shafiqul also dismissed claims that the army was not cooperating with the Commission of Inquiry on Enforced Disappearances. “Those [officers] who were called have already spoken to the commission and extended full cooperation. If further help is needed, the Bangladesh Army will continue to provide it. Any claim to the contrary is simply rumour,” he said.