100,000 Troops Deployed for Peaceful Election: Bangladesh Army

To maintain peace and order during the upcoming national elections, the Bangladesh Army has deployed over 100,000 troops, the highest number ever for a general election, according to a statement from the army's headquarters. This move aims to ensure a smooth and secure voting environment, with military personnel being stationed not only in remote areas but also around polling stations for the first time.

Brigadier General Dewan Mohammad Monzur Hossain, Director of the Military Operations Directorate, said during a press conference on February 5, 2026, that the army had previously deployed 40-42,000 personnel for past elections, but this time, the deployment was significantly increased. The decision was made to give army personnel the authority to patrol directly around the polling stations, ensuring safe voter access and restoring public confidence in the electoral process.

The deployment was initiated on January 20, 2026, and was further bolstered by assistance from the civilian administration in providing vehicles for the troops to patrol effectively. According to the army official, troops have been working tirelessly to strengthen security, conducting joint patrols and operations across the country.
 

The Bangladesh Army also expanded its presence in 62 districts and 411 upazilas (sub-districts), establishing 544 temporary camps. In addition to regular patrols, the army has been actively involved in arms recovery operations. Since January 20, the army has confiscated 150 weapons, the majority of which were foreign pistols, and arrested over 22,000 suspected criminals.

Furthermore, technology is playing a pivotal role in ensuring the election's security. Security apps are being used at high-risk polling stations, and law enforcement agencies will employ body cameras, drones, and other advanced technologies to handle any emerging situations swiftly.
 

Addressing concerns about election violence, General Hossain emphasized that the military is fully prepared to take necessary legal actions if any group attempts to seize ballots or capture polling stations. He also highlighted the ongoing efforts to recover missing weapons, noting that the army continues its operations to find the missing arms.

On the issue of social media misinformation, General Hossain urged journalists to play an active role in countering fake news and maintaining information integrity. He stressed the importance of providing accurate and reliable reports, particularly in the era of artificial intelligence, where misleading content can be easily generated.

He also confirmed that the decision of when the army will leave the election duties and return to barracks rests entirely with the government, as the military’s involvement is in accordance with the government's directives.