The Bangladesh Army, deployed for over 20 months as a striking force to maintain law and order, is now awaiting formal government instructions to return to barracks. Around 15,000 soldiers remain stationed across the country, with 50 active camps in 64 districts, including 25 in the Dhaka division. The army took charge of national security after the July 2024 mass uprising that led to the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s government and the collapse of police operations. Since then, it has conducted anti-terror operations, ensured public safety, and supported civil administration in various capacities.

Following the uprising, the interim government led by Dr. Yunus granted army officers limited executive magistrate powers under 17 sections of the Criminal Procedure Code. During the 2025 national election, about 100,000 army personnel, along with naval and air force members, were deployed nationwide to ensure peaceful polling. The army seized over 10,000 weapons and detained more than 22,000 suspects. Although most troops have since returned to bases, 15,000 remain active pending government approval to withdraw.

ISPR Director Lt. Col. Sami-ud-Daula Chowdhury confirmed that the army will return to barracks once the government issues official orders.