DHAKA, Mar 19, 2021 (BSS) – Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader today said those who destroy the country’s communal harmony are the allies of BNP.
“People think that the communal evil forces and their associates have a connection with the Sunamganj incident,” he told a regular press briefing on contemporary issues at his official residence here.
Quader, also the road transport and bridges minister, said the Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government is committed to ensuring coexistence and security of the people of all religions.
He said a vested quarter is trying to destroy the communal harmony in the country and they have taken the path of various tactics and conspiracies to cover up their political bankruptcy.
Mentioning that the government has already instructed the authorities concerned to take stern actions against those involved in the Sunamganj incident, after conducting a probe, Quader said: “Sheikh Hasina sees a crime as a crime. Those involved in this incident should also be punished likewise in the past.”
Expressing sympathy to the victims of the Sunamganj incident, he said a case was filed in connection with the incident and police are trying to detain the offenders.
The AL general secretary said while the government was talking about the punishment of the accused irrespective of party affiliation in the Sunamganj incident, it was being investigated whether the BNP leaders were deliberately trying to cover up the real culprits by blaming the ruling Awami League.
He said BNP tried to accelerate the anti-sculpture movement instigating the religious sentiments in the past but its effort fell flat.
The BNP leaders are continuously making falsehood saying that persecution of the minorities increases when the Awami League assumes power, he said, adding: “It is an imaginary allegation and falsehood.”
Quader said as per an order of the High Court, a judicial commission was formed to investigate the post-2001 incidents.
“The commission received 5,571 clear allegations of torture, and the actual picture was even more grim…even the members of the minority community were not able to submit their allegations of assault, terrorism and looting,” he said.
The AL general secretary announced the programmes of the Independence and National Day to be observed on March 26.
He said tribute will be paid to the national heroes at Savar National Memorial at 7.30 am on the day, following the health guidelines.
At 7.30 am, homage will be paid at the portrait of Bangabandhu at the Dhanmondi-32.
A discussion will be held at Bangabandhu Avenue at 11 am on March 26. Awami League President and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will join it virtually.