Moulvibazar, Jan 22 (V7N) — Without mentioning any specific political party by name, BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman on Thursday urged the interim government to increase security protocols for certain political groups, warning that public anger could escalate due to what he described as efforts to mislead people.

He made the remarks while addressing a brief election rally in Ainpur of Moulvibazar district on Thursday (January 22).

Addressing the head of the interim government and its advisers, Tarique Rahman said that the protocol and security arrangements currently provided should be increased threefold, if necessary, to prevent any untoward situation.

“We are requesting the government, on behalf of BNP and millions of people, to increase their protocol and security,” he said, adding that public frustration is growing as people become aware of what he termed misinformation.

He further stated that the BNP does not want people to act out of anger and that enhanced security measures could help avoid unrest.

Referring to historical events, Tarique Rahman alleged that the role played by certain forces during the 1971 Liberation War is now being recalled by the public, leading to increased resentment. He claimed that people are realizing attempts to create confusion and conspiracy ahead of the election.

The BNP chairman also said that when people understand these actions, those involved seek government security and protocol, which, according to him, reflects growing public awareness.

Speaking about governance, Tarique Rahman claimed that during BNP’s tenure, enforced disappearances did not occur. He also criticized the previous election, describing it as a “mock election” where voters were deprived of their rights.

Calling for the restoration of democratic processes, he said that only through a democratic mandate could people freely express their grievances. He reiterated BNP’s campaign slogan “Take Back Bangladesh”, saying the party has progressed halfway toward that goal.

The rally in Moulvibazar was part of BNP’s ongoing election campaign, which began earlier in the day with a large public meeting at the Alia Madrasa ground in Sylhet, where Tarique Rahman addressed supporters as the chief guest.

END/SMA/AJ