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DHAKA, Jan 19, 2026 (BSS) - To ensure a free, fair, and peaceful 13th national parliament election, the government has ordered all licensed firearm holders to surrender their weapons to the nearest police station by January 31, 2026.

According to a notification from the Home Ministry issued on Sunday, carrying and displaying firearms will be completely prohibited from the date of surrender until February 15, 2026, in line with the announced election schedule.

However, the restriction on displaying legal firearms will not apply to candidates for the post of Member of Parliament and their armed retainers, provided their nomination papers have been legally submitted to and accepted by the Election Commission. 

This exemption will be governed by the "Firearm License and Retainer Appointment Policy, 2025" applicable to politically important persons and parliamentary candidates.

The order further warns that legal action will be taken against anyone violating the directive under the relevant provisions of The Arms Act, 1878.

The order has been issued by the President, signed by Abeda Afsari, Deputy Secretary of the Home Ministry, and circulated to District Magistrates and Superintendents of Police for necessary action.