Dhaka, Aug. 23 -- The interim government has issued a statement to media outlets against publishing statements from deposed Awami League leader Sheikh Hasina, currently in India following her removal during last year's mass uprising. The move comes as Bangladesh prepares for its upcoming parliamentary elections, described by officials as the first genuinely free and fair polls in generations.

In a statement released on Friday, the Chief Adviser's office said broadcasting or disseminating audio messages from Sheikh Hasina - convicted of criminal offences and facing trial for crimes against humanity and genocide - through television, online platforms, or other news outlets would constitute a serious violation of the 2009 Anti-Terrorism Act...