Police have reported the arrest of over 3,000 individuals in connection with nearly 1,700 cases as part of their efforts to meet public expectations following the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement. The figures were disclosed in a media release issued by the Police Headquarters on Sunday.

The interim government, led by Muhammad Yunus, assumed power on August 8 after the fall of the Sheikh Hasina-led administration on August 5.

The ouster of the Hasina government is the culmination of the anti-discrimination movement throughout July.

The statement sent by the headquarters said, “A total of 1,695 lawsuits have been initiated so far against the attackers, instigators of the murders, and those who gave instructions to kill the students and members of the public to prevent the anti-discrimination movement."

Around 3,195 people were apprehended in these cases only in 13 days in October, the release read.

“As many as 74 high-profile individualis, including the leaders of the then ruling party, were included in the list of those arrested based on specific evidence over their involvement in such heinous acts.”

In addition, legal actions such as lawsuits and arrests have also been taken and they are still in place against those who were involved in various forms of crimes including extortion, tender manipulation, and criminal offences under the shadow of political parties in the past.

The students and the public associated with the anti-discrimination movement have no reason to be worried, the release said.

"The police services will be harassment-free and people-friendly. Bangladesh Police will ensure that no one is harassed unnecessarily."

The headquarters lauded the anti-discrimination movement as a landmark milestone in creating a discrimination-free society and ensuring human rights for everyone, saying it has opened the door to immense possibilities for all.

"In this journey, police are determined to work with the students and the public to build the desired Bangladesh."