Bangladesh sets deadline for turning in registered weapons ahead of election

Candidates in the polls, however, can still retain their weapons

Bangladesh has set a deadline for depositing registered weapons ahead of the parliamentary elections.

The restriction, however, will not apply to election candidates themselves.

The Ministry of Home Affairs issued a notice on Monday, stating: "In order to conduct the elections in a free, fair and peaceful manner, registered weapons must be surrendered to the nearest police station by the 31st of January."

The notice said, according to the announced schedule, the carrying and display of firearms by licensed individuals will be completely prohibited until Feb 15.

“In the interest of politically important individuals and candidates running for parliamentary seats, the directive restricting the display of registered firearms will not apply to candidates for the post of member of parliament or to their armed retainers, provided they have legally submitted and had their nomination papers accepted by the Election Commission in line with the ‘Firearm License and Retainer Appointment Policy, 2025’.”

As per the order, legal action will be taken against those violating the order as per the provisions of the relevant section of the Arms Act 1878.