Journalism of Courage
Bangladesh will deploy thousands of soldiers and paramilitary personnel for 15 days from next week to contain deadly political violence ahead of the controversial January 5 general elections.
Chief Election Commissioner Kazi Rakibuddin Ahmad Friday said army personnel will set up camps in every district during December 26-January 9 to ensure peaceful,free and fair polls.
The exact number of troops from the army,Border Guard Bangladesh,Coast Guard,Rapid Action Battalion and Armed Police Battalion to be deployed will be determined by the home ministry,he said.
Local media reports suggested around 50,000 troops may be mobilised.
The move comes amid mounting tensions after BNP-led opposition alliance and a key ally of premier Sheikh Hasinas party boycotted the parliamentary polls. The government,however,insists the vote will go ahead as planned.
