Staff Correspondent

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has called on India to respect Bangladesh's sovereignty and democracy.

He also urged the neighbouring country not to align with any specific political party, particularly the Awami League, in ways that could undermine Bangladesh's democratic aspirations.

"Bangladesh is a nation that fought for its independence through immense sacrifices. Do not stand against the people who achieved democracy shedding blood. The people of Bangladesh will never accept this," Fakhrul said during a rally in London at 2:00 am (Bangladesh Time) on Wednesday.

Fakhrul also criticised recent incidents involving Bangladesh's diplomatic missions in India and expressed concerns about border activities near Sylhet and Benapole. "We are deeply hurt when baseless accusations and lies put the people of Bangladesh in danger," he said, questioning India's intentions behind these activities.

He urged India to acknowledge its historical support for Bangladesh during the 1971 Liberation War while calling for a reevaluation of its current actions. "We always hope India will stand by the people of Bangladesh and rectify past mistakes to rebuild trust," Fakhrul added.

Accusing former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina of human rights violations and suppressing opposition voices, Fakhrul claimed, "She has killed 20,000 youths, disappeared 700 people including Ilias Ali (BNP leader), and jailed our leader Khaleda Zia. She forced Tarique Rahman (acting chairman of BNP) into exile with false cases."

The BNP leader stressed the importance of unity among political forces to safeguard Bangladesh's independence and sovereignty, urging party members to remain vigilant against disinformation campaigns and conspiracies.