India using Hasina as a ‘tool’ again: Rizvi

He made the remarks while addressing a programme organised by the Shaheed July Smriti Sangsad at the Jatiya Press Club, marking the 2nd anniversary of the July uprising. The event included financial assistance for families of those killed in the movement and a remembrance session.

Rizvi, also BNP senior joint secretary general, said allowing Hasina to address a press conference on Wednesday was a “planned” move.

“The country that claims to be the world's largest democracy has patronised this. Through this, Bangladesh’s sovereignty and independence have been insulted. Permission was deliberately granted to disrespect Bangladesh,” he said.

The BNP leader alleged that India previously sought to control Bangladesh through Hasina but is no longer able to do so.

“That is why Hasina is once again being used as a tool. The bloodthirsty monster has been driven out of Bangladesh. Now, a question has arisen can a fugitive convict engage in politics from the country where she has taken refuge? India has given her shelter, let her stay there. But from there, audio messages and statements are continuously being sent to create instability inside Bangladesh,” he said.

Rizvi further alleged that Hasina was formally allowed to speak on the very date marking her ouster from power.

“The Bangladesh government protested this. But the Indian government said it had no connection with the event. However, such a programme cannot be held without government approval. Without a government green signal, how could a fugitive convict and her son hold a press conference?” he said.

The BNP leader also claimed that if Hasina returns to Bangladesh, the country will once again witness “bloodshed and she will spare no one.”

Referring to the Awami League government, he alleged that there had been no fair justice during Hasina’s tenure.

Rizvi claimed that judges who attempted to deliver impartial verdicts risked enforced disappearance or had to flee the country to save their lives, reports UNB.