Some law enforcers broke law, action after inquiry: Arafat

State Minister for Information and Broadcasting Mohammad Ali Arafat has said law-enforcing agencies did not have permission to use firearms during the quota reform movement's violence, though he acknowledged that "some might have broken the law on the ground."

This statement came amid allegations from domestic and international human rights organisations that law enforcers used 'excessive' force and 'lethal' weapons.

The United Nations and various international bodies have called for a thorough, transparent, and impartial investigation into these allegations.

Addressing the concerns, Arafat said: "Law-enforcing agencies, including police, Rapid Action Battalion, and Border Guard Bangladesh, did not have permission to use firearms. They had to operate within the bounds of the Constitution and the law.

“However, I do not deny that some may have broken the law on the ground. We will investigate this and bring them to justice," he said.

Expressing regret over the incidents of violence and casualties, Arafat said: "No death was desirable. We will bring every responsible person to justice. Each death weighs heavily on our hearts.

“The student protesters had legitimate demands, but a third party infiltrated with ulterior motives, causing extensive destruction, as evident before you."

Highlighting the government's stance to ensure that students are not harassed, Arafat said: "The law will only target terrorists. Those found involved with concrete evidence will be arrested.

“I urge the police administration not to harass the family members of students who participated in the protests or provided water.

“We respect the emotions and sentiments of the protesting students and support their cause.

“However, it is clear that those who caused destruction exploited these emotions. We want to ensure no student is harassed and that terrorists are brought to justice."