BNP Standing Committee member Salah Uddin Ahmed has blamed the interim government and law enforcement agencies for their failure to prevent incidents of vandalism and looting that occurred across various parts of the country during Monday’s anti-Israel protests.
Speaking at a protest rally organised by the BNP’s student wing, Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal, near the Raju Sculpture at the University of Dhaka on Tuesday, Salah Uddin alleged, “The government’s and administration’s failure is clear. Had precautionary measures been taken in advance, the country’s image wouldn’t have been tarnished.”
Reports emerged that miscreants on Monday (7 April), in the midst of nationwide protests expressing solidarity with Palestine, took the opportunity to attack and loot businesses in several districts, including Sylhet, Chattogram, Cox’s Bazar, and Bogura.
Among the targeted establishments were showrooms of international brands like KFC, Pizza Hut, and Bata. Government sources have confirmed that at least 49 people have been arrested in connection with the incidents.
Criticising the ruling party, Salah Uddin claimed, “The ousted Awami League government had recognised Israel. They removed the phrase ‘Except Israel’ from Bangladeshi passports, which was a symbolic recognition of Israel, despite publicly displaying emotional support for Muslims.”
He also urged global Muslim leaders to speak out against the persecution of Muslims. “We call on the Muslim leadership around the world to raise their voices for the oppressed and put pressure on the powerful nations that support Israel,” he said.
Salah Uddin further alleged, “The Hasina government purchased Pegasus spyware from Israel for surveillance. No matter where she seeks shelter now, the people of Bangladesh will continue to denounce the anti-Islamic fascism of the Awami League.”
At the rally, BNP’s Student Affairs Secretary Rakibul Islam Bakul said, “We condemn those nations that remain silent even after witnessing genocide.”
The protest event was conducted by Chhatra Dal General Secretary Nasir.