26 February,2009 04:59 PM IST | | PTI
As the mutiny in Bangladesh by border guards spread to other parts of the country, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Thursday asked the renegades to lay down arms, warning that their failure to return to the barracks will force her take "any step" in the interest of the nation.
"I have decided to pardon all mutineers... I have asked BDR soldiers not to take the law for granted. I appeal to them to withdraw their agitation, surrender and return to the barracks," Hasina said in a brief televised broadcast to the nation.
The Bangladesh Prime Minister said, "Don't force me. I can take any step in the interest of the nation, if the soldiers do not return to the barracks after laying down their arms."
Hasina, however, did not specify what steps she would take in case of mutineers did not surrender.
Voicing shocks over the developments, she said that "no harm" will be done to the mutineers in case they surrender.
She also announced a ministerial committee to go into their grievances including pay disputes.
