Tarique warns parties’ actions may endanger people’s rights

Virtually addressing the Hindu Representative Council 2025, Tarique said the interim government’s foremost duty is to establish a democratic administration through free and fair elections, not to serve the interests of any political group.

“The role of some of our allies in the anti-fascist movement may now be endangering the rights and opportunities of many people. If the country becomes unstable, it may open the door for the return of the defeated fascist forces,” the BNP leader cautioned.

He urged the interim government and pro-democracy forces to remain alert, warning that the fallen fascist groups might be using covert strategies to destabilize the country. “The defeated fugitive forces of August 5 should not be allowed to use any party as a cover to create unrest. The best defence is to preserve national anti-fascist unity,” Tarique said.

Reaffirming BNP’s commitment to cooperation with the interim government, he said dissent should be expressed respectfully, not through pressure or confrontation.

The event, organised by Matua Bahujan Samaj Oikya Jote at the Krishibid Institution Bangladesh, was attended by leaders and activists from various Hindu organisations and temple committees. The programme began with recitations from the Vedas and the Gita, followed by a ceremonial lighting of lamps.

Describing BNP as a peaceful, tolerant and people-centric party, Tarique said respecting diverse opinions is integral to BNP’s political culture. “Our politics aims to ensure the people’s political and economic empowerment,” he added.

He urged the interim government to prioritise holding a free, fair, and credible national election in February, saying the vote would allow citizens to freely choose their representatives.

Outlining BNP’s vision, Tarique said the party plans to introduce Family Cards for five million low-income families—issued in the names of female household heads—and Farmers’ Cards to assist small and marginal farmers in achieving economic self-reliance.

He also highlighted BNP’s initiatives to tackle youth unemployment through technical and language training to prepare young people for both domestic and overseas employment.

“Through these initiatives, BNP seeks your support to build a democratic Bangladesh of harmony and prosperity—where every citizen, regardless of religion or background, can live with dignity and equal opportunity,” Tarique said.

He stressed that justice and the rule of law must prevail for the safety and equality of all citizens, irrespective of faith, class, or political identity.

Referring to Bangladesh’s pluralistic heritage, he said, “The unity within diversity is the true beauty of our national life. In such a diverse society, the unifying force is Bangladeshi nationalism.”

Addressing the Hindu community, Tarique assured them of equal rights and promised that their demands would be fulfilled if BNP came to power.

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, who also spoke at the event, said the party is committed to building a non-communal, progressive, and democratic Bangladesh as envisioned by BNP founder Ziaur Rahman.

He said the Matua community, like all others, deserves to live with dignity and equality, urging their support for BNP in the upcoming national election.