Dhaka, Oct 19 (V7N)- Dhaka-6 lawmaker Ishraq Hossain has announced his resignation as State Minister for Liberation War Affairs, two days after controversy erupted over his display of a firearm during an anti-drug operation in the capital’s Gendaria area.

He formally announced the decision at a press conference at the National Press Club on Monday afternoon, saying his anti-drug campaign would continue despite his decision to leave the ministerial post.

At the press conference, Ishraq identified himself as a BNP member of parliament elected from Dhaka-6 and said he had taken the oath of office on February 12. He added that Prime Minister Tarique Rahman had subsequently entrusted him with the responsibility of state minister in the Liberation War Affairs Ministry.

Referring to the media coverage surrounding the firearm incident over the previous two days, Ishraq said he had called the press conference to explain the matter and his decision in detail.

He said he intended to meet the Prime Minister and inform him of his decision to resign, explaining that he did not want the controversy surrounding him to cause embarrassment to the Prime Minister or the BNP.

Ishraq also said he had informed the head of government of his intention to continue work of national importance in his parliamentary constituency and surrounding areas, particularly his campaign against drugs.

Defending his actions during the anti-drug operation, Ishraq said he believed he had not committed any wrongdoing and had displayed his firearm at a point when he considered it necessary for his personal safety.

“I did not go to collect donations; I went to fight against drugs,” he said, alleging that images of the incident were being presented in different ways across social media and news outlets, diverting attention from the anti-drug campaign.

However, he expressed regret if his actions had constituted a mistake or hurt anyone.

The controversy over the firearm display preceded his resignation announcement, while Ishraq maintained that his efforts against drug-related activities would continue in Dhaka-6 and nearby areas.

His announcement of resignation came at a press conference; formal acceptance of the resignation by the Prime Minister or the government was not confirmed in the information available at the time of writing.

END/SMA/AJ