Dhaka: BNP Secretary General and Local Government, Rural Development (LGRD) and Cooperatives Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir today stressed the importance of safeguarding Bangladesh’s interests in the Farakka agreement with India. He voiced his stance at a discussion organized by BNP at the Institution of Engineers, Bangladesh (IEB) auditorium, commemorating the Farakka Long March Day.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Fakhrul emphasized that the Farakka agreement must be negotiated through dialogues with India, ensuring that Bangladesh’s interests are prioritized. He highlighted that the potential for establishing good relations between the two countries hinges on the signing of the Ganges Water Sharing Agreement or the Farakka Agreement. Fakhrul was adamant that Bangladesh would not accept any agreement that compromises its interests.
Fakhrul urged India to proactively renew the agreement, underscoring the necessity of protecting Bangladesh’s interests in the process. He pointed out that the Ganga Water Sharing Agreement is set to expire in 2026, and praised the current government’s decision to construct the Padma Barrage as a historic step taken swiftly for the benefit of the people.
He also called for national unity, stating that if the people stand united on issues of sovereignty and national interest, no external conspiracies could threaten the country. Fakhrul accused a neighboring country of committing injustices under the guise of the Farakka Dam and alleged that a vested quarter is plotting against the government led by Tarique Rahman, which was democratically elected.
Fakhrul warned against forces spreading propaganda against the government and urged for organized efforts to preserve governmental stability. He concluded by affirming that the people of Bangladesh, having achieved democracy through their sacrifices, will not allow conspiracies to take root in their nation.
The meeting was attended by senior BNP leaders, noted water and environmental experts, and representatives from civil society, who collectively called for unity in securing a fair share of river water and safeguarding national interests.