India fueling communalism to assert its dominance: Rizvi

BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi has said that neighbouring India is fueling communal tensions and inciting extreme Hindu nationalists in a bid to assert its dominance in the subcontinent. 

"By fueling communalism, you [India] are not only dividing India but also eroding the democratic tradition it has upheld since independence. Through this and by inciting hardline Hindus, India is attempting to assert its dominance in the subcontinent," he said while speaking as the chief guest at an event demanding a boycott of Indian products in the capital today (6 December).

Rizvi criticised India's approach, claiming, "Countries like Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, the Maldives, Pakistan, and even Bangladesh – your neighbouring nations – are no longer with you. This is due to your arrogance and continuous exploitation."

He added, "Bangladesh is a self-reliant nation, built on the sacrifice of 30 lakh lives. With a population of 18 to 19 crores, do you think you can scare or silence us with false propaganda? Why have you suddenly started spreading lies against Bangladesh?"

The BNP leader referred to the government of Sheikh Hasina, saying, "Before 5 August, the country was under a despised government that killed its own citizens and silenced democracy activists to stay in power. You supported Sheikh Hasina because she did your bidding." 

"She didn't need votes. The elections held under Sheikh Hasina were voter-less, known for terms like 'vote-less', 'midnight votes', and others," Rizvi added.

Rizvi also criticised India's trade restrictions, particularly the halt in exports of onions, garlic, ginger, and soybean oil, saying, "You think stopping these exports will hurt us, but you're wrong. Years ago, you stopped exporting cattle, yet Bangladeshis built their own farms, and 1.20 crore livestock were sacrificed during one Eid."

He added, "Don't forget, Bangladeshis are hardworking and know how to produce onions, garlic, and ginger. You think you are the only country in the world? Are there no other countries we can import from? Are there no other sources for oil?"

Turning the tables on India, Rizvi said, "You thought blocking trade would trouble Bangladesh, but it's you who are facing difficulties. Your markets are struggling, and hospitals may shut down. Bangladeshis will go elsewhere if needed. This nation, built on the sacrifice of blood, cannot be intimidated."

The BNP leader also added, "Republic Bengal, an Indian TV channel, has claimed Chattogram as part of India, spreading false propaganda. We could also claim Bengal, Bihar, and Odisha, as these are our rightful claims, but we don't make such demands. We've fought many struggles together in this subcontinent."

The event was also attended by BNP's Assistant Religious Affairs Secretary Amalendu Das Apu, Vice-President of Jatiyatabadi Sechhasebok Dal Jahidul Kabir, and Chhatra Dal vice president Touhidur Rahman Awal and joint secretary Raju Ahmed, among others.