Dhaka, Dec. 15 -- The government has issued a policy to allow "politically important" individuals and election candidates to obtain firearms licences and hire retainers (gunmen).

Following the shooting of Inqilab Moncho spokesperson Sharif Osman bin Hadi, the home advisor announced special security for frontline July activists and candidates in the general elections.

The home ministry issued a notification on the policy on Monday in line with that.

Under this special policy, two types of individuals can apply for a firearms licence and gunman appointment.

1. A government-recognised or approved "politically important person"

2. If the nomination papers have been submitted and accepted for the general elections

The policy stipulates t...