Bangladesh
Home Minister BNP's sudden programmes causing public distress: Home Minister
Dhaka, July 26: Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal said that people are suffering in Dhaka around the suddenly announced political programme of BNP. However, he said that there is no obstacle from the government to carry out the peaceful programme of the party.
He said this in response to questions from reporters after a meeting with a delegation led by the European Union (EU) Special Representative for Human Rights, Eamon Gilmore, at the Secretariat on Tuesday.
When asked whether any decision has been taken on the program of BNP's general meeting in Dhaka on July 27, the Home Minister said, "What will be our decision?" See, all of a sudden they (BNP) are giving programs that are causing public suffering. They say - they have started the movement, they will continue the movement. We are not obstructing peaceful activities.
The minister said, we have no objection if the people are involved in the movement. But our objection is if people want to be brought by force. In the name of the programme, we will stop only if there is public suffering, blocking of roads, damage to property or loss of life.
He said that there is no hindrance to the government if the program is carried out peacefully. You (journalist) have seen that BNP is doing all kinds of programs. They marched and formed human chains. But we didn't stop anything. Because, they have done these programs beautifully. As a result, if you want to do it peacefully in the future. We will not be hindered there either. But if you want to cause harm to people or property, we will take action according to law. This is what they have been told.
Asaduzzaman Khan also said that they (BNP) recently held a long march after the padayatra and also held a youth rally. Now they have written to our police commissioner to hold a big rally. The police commissioner is yet to comment. Will comment soon.
On the same day as BNP's programme, giving a counter-programme by the ruling party will increase the level of public suffering or not, he said, it is for you to see. Political parties will give programs before the election, why are you only looking at ISE (Awami League)? Other parties are also giving programs. You must have noticed them.
