Says Nahid Islam
'Impact of West Bengal Situation May Affect Bangladesh'
Photo: Agamir Somoy
Nahid Islam, the Convener of the National Citizens' Party (NCP), has expressed his concern on alleged the persecution of Muslims in West Bengal that may have repercussions in Bangladesh. He urged the members of the public not to fall for any form of provocation.
The Opposition Chief Whip was speaking on Thursday afternoon at an event in Chattogram organized to mark the joining of over a hundred leaders and activists from various political parties to his political party, NCP.
Referring to the BJP's victory in the recently concluded elections in West Bengal, Nahid Islam said, "As a neighboring region to Bangladesh, West Bengal is very important to us. The election is their internal matter, and I do not wish to comment on that. However, we saw that before the election, the citizenship of several hundred thousand voters was revoked, the majority of whom are from the Muslim and Matua communities."
"I have also stated in Parliament that Muslims are being persecuted there in West Bengal. Their voting rights are being taken away. This will have an impact on Bangladesh. Since the election, Muslims, Matuas, Dalits, and other minority communities are being subjected to oppression."
Urging the people of Bangladesh to behave responsibly, he said, "After the results in West Bengal, Bangladesh's responsibility has expanded significantly. Bangladesh must act responsibly. We must take responsibility for the independence, sovereignty, and the security and civil rights of all Hindus, Muslims, Buddhists, and Christians in this country."
"Our enemies will incite various provocations against the interests of the country. They will spread communalism and propaganda. We must remain conscious. We will demonstrate that Bangladesh is the safest place for minorities in South Asia."
Nahid Islam also commented that both the current and previous governments must take responsibility for child deaths due to measles in the country. He urged the new members not to get involved in any conflicts and to work harmoniously with existing members.
At the same event, Member of Parliament Hasnat Abdullah, the Chief Organizer of NCP's southern region, claimed that many BNP leaders and activists want to join the NCP but are hesitant to say so out of embarrassment. He asked NCP leaders to maintain communication with them.
