BNP Blames Govt, Police for Vandalism During Protests

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has condemned the acts of vandalism and looting that occurred during anti-Israel protests across the country on Monday, accusing both the government and law enforcement agencies of failing to take appropriate precautionary measures.

Speaking at a protest rally organized by Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal at the Dhaka University campus on Tuesday, senior BNP leader Salahuddin Ahmed emphasized that while the party supports boycotting Israeli products, it strongly rejects any violence against business establishments. "We stand against Israeli aggression, but that does not justify attacking local businesses," he stated.

The rally, held at the Raju Memorial Sculpture, was a show of solidarity with Palestine and a protest against the ongoing violence in Gaza and Rafah. It was part of a broader movement that has swept Bangladesh in response to the heavy casualties and alleged human rights violations caused by Israeli forces.

Salahuddin, a BNP Standing Committee member, condemned the attacks on businesses, which occurred under the guise of protesting Israeli products. “These actions were unacceptable,” he said. “The government's failure to ensure security and law enforcement's inability to take timely action were clear indicators of the administration's incompetence.”

The BNP further criticized the government for not taking proper steps in managing the protests, which they argue led to unnecessary disruption and public unrest. "Had the authorities responded effectively to the protests against Israeli aggression and mass killings, these unfortunate incidents could have been avoided," Salahuddin added.

In the aftermath of the protests, police have arrested 49 individuals connected to the vandalism and looting in multiple cities. These actions have been condemned by authorities as a direct threat to public safety and the rule of law.

In a statement posted on the Chief Adviser’s verified Facebook account on Tuesday, the government reiterated its commitment to upholding public order and stressed the severity of the violence. Two cases related to the vandalism have already been filed, and investigations are ongoing.

The country’s official stance remains strongly against the killings and human rights violations in Gaza, as Bangladesh continues to voice its condemnation of Israeli actions.