Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Secretary General Mia Golam Porwar today alleged that Delhi holds the “remote control” behind Bangladesh’s political turmoil, claiming it influences the country’s politics, economy, trade and culture.
“Delhi controls the remote behind all the political chaos, oppression and changes of power in this country. It also exerts control over the economy, politics, business, trade and culture,” he told reporters after addressing a members’ (Rukn) conference at the Narsingdi Shishu Academy auditorium this afternoon.
Referring to ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina, Porwar said that India was allowing "a death-row convict" to stay in Delhi with access to technological facilities and other comforts in violation of the Geneva Conventions, laws relating to prisoner exchange and other legal provisions.
"We want friendly and fair relations with all neighbouring countries in the interest of Bangladesh. But when a country repeatedly takes steps that go against Bangladesh's politics, government and national interests, the people do not welcome that," he said.
On the issue of Sheikh Hasina, Porwar said the matter was now before the tribunal and that the government and the judicial process would determine the next course of action.
"There is a tribunal, there are laws, and there is a government. They will decide the matter. We have left the decision to them in line with the aspirations of the people," he said.
"The people of this country will never tolerate these fascist forces. Ignoring the intimidation of the Rab, police, the army and hegemonic forces, it was the people who forced the 'queen of fascism' to flee the country. But those forces are still here," he said.
Speaking on constitutional reform, Porwar criticised the BNP, claiming that although the party had earlier pledged comprehensive state reforms through its 31-point outline, it was now speaking only of constitutional amendments.
"BNP says it wants amendments, not reforms. But if you read the first point of its 31-point proposal, it clearly states that it would form a commission to reform the constitution if it came to power. Now it talks only about amendments. That means it has failed to honour its commitment to the nation," he said.
He urged the BNP to avoid pushing the country towards confrontation and instead convene at the parliament to begin constitutional reforms.
Porwar also criticised the immediate-past interim government, alleging that public suffering had increased in recent months because of a deteriorating law and order situation marked by killings, torture and child rape.
He further claimed that flood-affected people were not receiving adequate relief and that there was no visible government initiative for their rescue or rehabilitation.
The conference, organised by Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami's Narsingdi district unit, was presided over by district organiser Md Ibrahim Bhuiyan.
Central and local party leaders and activists were present at the event.
