In strong opposition to the government’s move to equip the Ansar battalion members with some policing powers such as arresting suspected criminals the BNP on Tuesday demanded the withdrawal of the newly introduced legislation, Ansar Battalion Bill, 2023.
Tabled in parliament on Monday the bill was sent to the parliamentary standing committee on the home ministry for further examination.
Read: Khaleda Zia again taken back to cabin from CCU
“A bill was placed in parliament yesterday (Monday). It is not only a cause of serious concern, but also a matter of panic. This is how they (govt) are destroying the entire state system and the institutions,” said BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir.
Speaking at a press conference, he said the police are the only institution all over the world that has the power to arrest offenders. “But Ansars, who don't even have basic training, will be given that power here (in Bangladesh).”
The BNP leader said policing is a different thing and the force is run under several laws, rules, and a different code of conduct.
He said the role and activities of the Ansars force are different and it is run by a different institution.
Read: Fakhrul urges AL to introduce caretaker govt provision in current JS session
Fakhrul said late President and BNP founder Ziaur Rahman modernised the Ansar force during his rule.
The BNP leader alleged that the government has brought the Ansar Battalion Bill, 2023 as part of its move to politicise the force.
“We condemn it and simultaneously demand the withdrawal of the bill. We strongly demand that this bill is not passed in any way,” he said.
A draft law has been tabled in the Jatiya Sangsad giving the Ansar battalion powers that are exercised by Bangladesh Police such detaining criminals, conducting body searches and seizing goods.
Some opposition members in the parliament objected to the bill, saying it might create Ansar as a parallel force to the Bangladesh Police
The controversial bill was placed in the House by Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan, keeping the death penalty as the maximum punishment for different crimes, including mutiny and provocation for rebellion.
Read: In conversations with Hindu community, Fakhrul insists 'return to democracy' as best bet for harmony
The watchdog body on the home ministry has been asked to submit its report within three working days. If the bill is passed in the current parliament session, the members of Ansar will have an opportunity to exercise their new powers during the upcoming parliamentary election.