Interim Govt Extends Magistracy Powers of Armed Forces Officers by 60 More Days

Dhaka, 13 July 2025 — The interim government has once again extended executive magistracy powers to commissioned officers of the Bangladesh Army, Navy, and Air Force for another 60 days, effective from 14 July (Monday).

A notification issued today by the Ministry of Public Administration confirmed the extension. Under the order, military officers holding the rank of captain and above will continue to serve as special executive magistrates across the country.

The directive also applies to military personnel on deputation to the Bangladesh Coast Guard and Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), granting them identical powers under Sections 12(1) and 17 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), 1898.

These extended powers—under CrPC Sections 64, 65, 83, 84, 86, 95(2), 100, 105, 107, 109, 110, 126, 127, 128, 130, 133, and 142—authorize officers to act in matters involving arrests, search warrants, public nuisance, unlawful assemblies, and other security-related issues.

This marks the fifth consecutive extension since the magistracy authority was first granted on 17 September 2024, following the ouster of the Awami League-led government and the formation of the interim administration in August. Previous extensions were announced on 12 January, 13 March, and 13 May of this year.

Officials say the decision aims to maintain law and order amid ongoing political uncertainty and public safety concerns.