Ahead of the 13th national parliamentary election and the referendum scheduled for February 12, the government yesterday decided to deploy law enforcement agencies across the country in two phases.

According to a circular issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs, overall coordination -- from the security of polling centres to the operation of mobile and striking forces -- will remain under the authority of the returning officers.

The circular said police, Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), Ansar and VDP, and the Coast Guard will be deployed to maintain law and order. In addition, members of the armed forces will be deployed under the "in aid to civil power" provision to assist the local civil administration.

The circular also said in the first phase, personnel already deployed will continue their duties. In the second phase, law enforcement personnel will be on duty for seven days -- from four days before the polls to two days after -- between February 8 and February 14.

The armed forces, BGB, Coast Guard, RAB, police, APBN, and Ansar battalions will operate as mobile and striking forces to maintain law and order in the electoral areas.

Of these, BGB, RAB, APBN, and Ansar battalions will work on a district-, upazila-, and police station-based arrangement, while the Coast Guard will remain responsible for coastal areas.

The circular stated that all forces will report to the returning officers and carry out their duties in line with their instructions and advice. If necessary, mobile and striking teams may be reorganised.

Four armed police members will be deployed at important points in metropolitan areas, while three armed police members will be deployed at each important point in non-metropolitan areas. Three armed police members will also be deployed at key locations in special areas (hilly and remote regions).