Dhaka, Sep 19 (V7N)- National Citizen Party (NCP) Convener and Opposition Chief Whip Nahid Islam has accused the BNP-led government of violating human rights and undermining democracy.
He made the remarks on Saturday while addressing the inaugural rally of the Jamaat-e-Islami-led 11-party alliance's Dhaka-Rangpur long march at Manik Mia Avenue in the capital.
Nahid alleged that the BNP government was following a similar path to the previous Awami League administration in its use of laws and state institutions. He said the government was creating conditions that could lead to further violations of people's rights.
Addressing Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, Nahid said he would have to decide how he would leave office, asking whether he would leave the country by helicopter or resign with dignity. The remark was made as a political warning during his speech at the rally.
Nahid also said the opposition's demands could eventually converge into a single demand if the government failed to address them. The 11-party alliance is currently pressing for eight demands, including implementation of the referendum verdict, trials over the July killings, improvements in law and order, action against corruption and extortion, and implementation of the Teesta Master Plan.
He claimed that a nationwide wave of public support had emerged around the long march and alleged that banners and festoons belonging to the alliance had been removed at various locations along the route since the previous night.
Nahid further alleged that BNP activists and city corporation officials were involved in removing the banners and festoons. He said such actions would not stop the mobilisation surrounding the long march.
The Jamaat-led alliance has said the long march will proceed peacefully despite any obstacles. Leaders have also urged supporters not to respond to provocations during the programme.
The Dhaka-Rangpur long march began following the inaugural rally at Manik Mia Avenue. The programme is scheduled to pass through Gazipur, Tangail, Sirajganj, Bogura and Gaibandha before concluding with a rally at Rangpur Zilla School.
END/SMA/AJ
