Own Correspondent

BNP Standing Committee member Gayeshwar Chandra Roy has said that the BNP intends to counter the Awami League through political activities rather than engaging in street-based confrontation or physical conflict.

He made the remarks while speaking to journalists after paying respects at the graves of BNP founder and former President Ziaur Rahman and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, Dhaka, on Tuesday, September 29.

Gayeshwar Chandra Roy said the BNP would face the Awami League politically, stressing that the statement should not be interpreted as a call for violence, clashes or direct physical confrontation. According to him, political differences should be addressed through political programs, positions and activities.

He said the BNP does not want political disagreements to contribute to instability or violence in the country. Instead, the party wants to maintain its political activities while remaining connected with the people. He also called on BNP leaders and activists to exercise caution and act responsibly in the prevailing political environment.

The BNP leader also spoke about public safety and possible acts of sabotage. He said that if anyone attempts to create disorder or instability through secret or destructive activities, the responsible individuals should be identified through proper investigation and brought under the law.

According to Gayeshwar Chandra Roy, maintaining public safety is primarily the responsibility of the administration. He said allegations of sabotage should be investigated properly and, if evidence is found, those responsible should face legal action under the existing laws, irrespective of their political affiliation.

He also referred to the BNP's broader political objectives, including the restoration of multiparty democracy and the political ideals associated with former President Ziaur Rahman. He said the BNP is seeking to play a role in the country's political transition while supporting democratic principles, independence and national sovereignty.

Gayeshwar Chandra Roy further said political parties have the right to compete and present their respective positions in a democratic system. However, he stressed that political competition should not result in violence, public disorder or threats to ordinary citizens.

The BNP's position comes at a time when the future political role of the Awami League remains a subject of considerable discussion in Bangladesh. Political leaders from different parties have been expressing varying views about the country's political situation and the role of major political parties.

Against this backdrop, Gayeshwar Chandra Roy's comments about politically countering the Awami League have drawn attention in political circles. However, his remarks represent the BNP's position, while any response from the Awami League would need to be considered separately.

He also urged BNP leaders and activists at different levels to remain alert and maintain discipline during political activities. According to him, the party's engagement with the people and its political programs should continue without creating conditions that could undermine public safety or democratic progress.

Gayeshwar Chandra Roy's latest remarks therefore underline the BNP's stated intention to compete with the Awami League through political means rather than direct confrontation, while emphasizing the importance of maintaining law and order and protecting the safety of citizens.