Dhaka, Dec 03 (V7N) — Responding to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's recent demand for the deployment of UN peacekeepers in Bangladesh, BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi strongly criticized the statement, asserting that peacekeepers are needed in India, not in Bangladesh.

Speaking at a press conference at the BNP's central office on Tuesday, Rizvi said, "India has long oppressed its minorities, yet remains silent about its own issues while attempting to destabilize Bangladesh as part of a larger master plan."

Rizvi alleged that India is actively disseminating misinformation to prevent the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s government, adding that certain extremist organizations under India's patronage aim to create chaos in Bangladesh. He also accused India of pursuing an aggressive stance, saying, "India wants to walk on the path of aggression without respecting the people's will. The people of Bangladesh will resist any such interference to protect the nation’s sovereignty."

Rizvi pointed to incidents in Assam, Kashmir, Manipur, and Punjab, where he claimed minorities, particularly Muslims, are being persecuted. He called for India to deploy peacekeepers within its own borders to address these issues before commenting on Bangladesh's internal matters. He said, "Those who fail to protect minorities in their own country have no moral authority to discuss Bangladesh. Attempts at creating division here originate from Delhi, but the people of Bangladesh will never accept such aggression."

Mamata Banerjee had, during the winter session of the West Bengal Legislative Assembly on Monday, urged the Indian central government to approach the UN for peacekeeper deployment in Bangladesh. She also demanded a statement from Prime Minister Narendra Modi or External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar regarding the situation in Bangladesh.

Rizvi dismissed Mamata’s proposal as unwarranted interference, stating, "India’s focus should be on ensuring security within its own borders rather than dictating terms to Bangladesh." He also criticized the Indian government for its perceived failure to ensure the safety of the Bangladesh High Commission in India.

Rizvi urged the Bangladeshi government to prioritize the safety and rights of all citizens, including minorities, without seeking validation from India. He concluded by asserting that any attempts to undermine Bangladesh’s independence and unity will be met with resistance by its people.

This development comes amidst heightened political tensions in both countries, with leaders from both sides making pointed remarks about each other’s governance and minority rights.

END/MSS/AJ