Dhaka:The BNP has reiterated its commitment to opposing enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings, a stance it has maintained for the past 17 years. Prime Minister's Information and Broadcasting Adviser Zahed Ur Rahman emphasized this position during a press briefing at the Secretariat, where he also stated that the Prime Minister will make the final decision regarding the comments made by the Inspector General of Police about crossfire operations.
According to United News of Bangladesh, Zahed stressed that no democratic government can support extrajudicial killings, highlighting the necessity for states to arrest criminals and hand them over to the judicial system. He elaborated that while a death sentence can be imposed through judicial proceedings, extrajudicial killings cannot be sanctioned by the state.
Zahed also addressed the potential political implications of extrajudicial actions, saying that the government intends to complete its term without resorting to tactics that could damage its credibility. He commented on the police chief's remarks regarding crossfire operations, noting that the IGP had retracted his statements and suggesting the issue be laid to rest.
Additionally, Zahed commented on the arrest of a woman entrepreneur in Bhaluka, Mymensingh, for her remarks on social media about voting for the BNP. He expressed that individuals have the right to express their views and hoped that her remarks would not be treated as a criminal offense.
Regarding reports of vandalism and looting in Pirganj, Rangpur, Zahed indicated that police actions were taken in response to these incidents. He assured that the government would act against extremist tendencies and emphasized the importance of ensuring justice and safety for all communities, including the Hindu community in Bangladesh.