The BNP on Thursday expressed apprehensions that the prime minister’s directive on Wednesday to the police to take “any action required to restore order” would lead to more extra-judicial killings.
In a statement, BNP joint secretary general Ruhul Kabir Rizvi said such directive would intensify and prolong the current political crisis.
“Will more dead bodies be floating on the rivers and marshlands, as consequence of her statement? Will the joint forces continue crackdown on sprawling villages? Will there be more fictitious stories on gunfights that would ensure killing of more leaders and workers of the opposition?” he questioned.
On Wednesday, premier Sheikh Hasina, at a meeting with senior police officials, said, “Do not hesitate to do whatever necessary to stop those who attack and burn people. I’ll take the liabilities.”
Expressing serious concern at this directive, Rizvi said the government is trying to blame the BNP-led opposition for the bomb and arson attacks, which he said, are a crime.
“These are inhuman acts but unfortunately the opposition leaders and workers are being blamed whereas they can’t even stay at their homes due to the police actions,” the BNP leader pointed out.
He said the Awami League government is further intimidating the media to carry out news items that damage the image of the BNP and its allies.
Rizvi also alleged that the government is responsible for arson and bomb attacks.
The BNP leader once again expressed optimism that despite repressive measures by the government, the opposition leaders and workers will continue the peaceful demonstration programme.
Source: Prothom Alo