Dhaka, April 28 -- Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed on Tuesday said that there is currently no existence of militancy in Bangladesh, alleging that the term had been used as a political tool by the previous "fascist" government.

Some extremist or radical groups exist in every country, but the government has remained vigilant to keep them under control, he said.

The minister made the remarks while responding to a question from reporters after attending a programme marking the 31st Raising Day of the Bangladesh Coast Guard at its headquarters in the city's Agargaon on Tuesday.

Replying to another question, Salahuddin Ahmed said the process of gradually withdrawing army personnel deployed under "In Aid to Civil Power" has already begun.

"We...