"I don't know whether the two leaders are kept in confinement. But I don't think it's necessary to keep them confined. They aren't threat to the country," the adviser said.

Matin, also the chairman of National Coordination Committee on Serious Crimes, made the remarks when reporters asked whether Hasina and Khaleda are kept in confinement.

Asked if Khaleda and Hasina will be brought to justice like other politicians on charges of corruption, the adviser said if any corruption occurs in his ministry, he will be responsible for that.

"They (Khaleda and Hasina) cannot avoid the responsibility for corruption committed during their rules," Matin said, adding: "If necessary, they'll be brought to justice."

Dismissing the allegation that only politicians are being charged with corruption, he said the anti-corruption drive is not targeting any particular individual or quarter. Actions are being taken against those involved in corruption, he said.

To another question, Matin said initiative to form a national security council taken soon after the present caretaker government took power is now in cold storage.

The adviser said the National Coordination Committee on Serious Crimes approved 17 cases to be filed against 18 people.

He said relevant documents for filing the cases will be sent to the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC).