Dhaka, Feb. 20 -- The interim government has forced 22 deputy commissioners who served as returning officers in the last three general elections into compulsory retirement.

Speaking to journalists at the Secretariat on Thursday, Public Administration Secretary Mokhlesur Rahman emphasised the government's "tough" decisions in the public interest and their implementation.

Among those affected, four had served as returning officers in the 2014 election.

"Since the election took place a long time ago, only four remained in service while many had already retired, but there are still numerous allegations against them," the secretary said.

He added, "The Anti-Corruption Commission is also filing cases against them. Retirement does not mean f...