United News of Bangladesh

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman on Saturday underscored the need for taking legal measures against those who have repeatedly violated the constitution and formed illegitimate parliaments and governments in the country. “Our statement is very clear — legal action must be taken against those who have repeatedly violated the constitution, formed illegal parliaments or governments and all those involved in breaching the constitution,” he said while exchanging greetings with members of the Buddhist community. The BNP arranged the programme at the party Chairperson’s Gulshan office, marking Buddha Purnima, the biggest religious festival of the Buddhist community. Tarique Rahman said the people of Bangladesh do not want to see the return or rehabilitation of fallen, fugitive, autocratic, and evil forces who were involved in enforced disappearances, murders, abductions, corruption, looting, money laundering, and the operation of torture cells such as the infamous ‘Aynaghar’, in any form within government or politics. He also said the democracy-loving people in Bangladesh are now agreed on two key issues — firstly, that no one should be allowed to turn Bangladesh into a subservient state in the future, and secondly, that the absconding, subservient and anti-democratic forces must not be allowed to raise their heads again. “As a political activist, I understand that the people of Bangladesh are not willing to accept any compromise on these two issues. Every political party in Bangladesh, including the BNP, completely agrees with this demand of the people,” Tarique said. He called on people from all walks of life to remain alert so that no one can conspire to usurp their right to vote. Tamim urges reflection on past mistakes at BNP’s youth rally in Ctg “The BNP wants to establish a democratic government in the country through the direct votes of citizens, which will be bound to remain accountable to the people. But until a democratic government is established in the country, we must ensure that no one is able to conspire to hijack our democratic political rights and our right to vote,” the BNP leader said. Tarique said democracy still remains the only viable option recognised globally to establish a safe and humane state. “In democratic societies, those who act against democracy are identified as anti-democratic forces. In Bangladesh, the party or individuals who have carried out fascist rule and repression over the past decade by depriving people of their democratic rights have been identified by the pro-democratic people as such anti-democratic forces,” he said. Tarique said his party, BNP, wants to see the interim government succeed. He, however, said the BNP has been consistently calling upon the government from the very beginning to announce a clear roadmap or action plan so that the public has a transparent understanding of its activities. “If people have a clear understanding of the government’s operations, there will be no scope for confusion, suspicion, or misinformation,” the BNP leader said. He called upon the media in Bangladesh to increase the coverage of abuses and misdeeds associated with the downfall of fascist rule and the incidents of July and August. Tarique specifically urged journalists to publish investigative reports on attacks against religious communities in various parts of the country, such as Ramu in Cox’s Bazar, Nasirnagar in Brahmanbaria and other areas like Rangpur, Gaibandha and Sunamganj. He expressed his belief that identifying those responsible for these incidents would prevent anyone from using religious communities for political gain. Tarique also mentioned that, if the BNP is voted into power, it will form an all-party, multi-faith "Citizens' Investigation Commission" with representatives from civil society to uncover the underlying causes behind the unpleasant incidents involving different religious communities that occurred during the fifteen years of fascist rule. Regardless of political affiliation or religion, he said every citizen's primary and proud identity in the country is being Bangladeshi. “It is the principle of the BNP that every citizen, as a Bangladeshi, will enjoy equal and fair rights in the state and society by keeping intact their own religious beliefs or cultural uniqueness,” Tarique said. He also extended his greetings to the Buddhist community on the occasion of Buddha Purnima.

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman on Friday said some recent incidents, including former President Abdul Hamid's departure from the country, are increasingly raising doubts among people about the interim government's ability to fulfil its responsibilities. “If we observe recent developments, doubts are gradually growing among various sections of people and professionals for various reasons about the interim government's ability to carry out its duties,” he said while virtually exchanging greetings with members of the Christian community. The BNP leader, however, said their party has still continued to cooperate with and support the current interim government in every aspect with the aim of establishing a representative government accountable to people through public mandate. Bangladesh Christian Forum organised the programme, marking the Easter Reunion at an auditorium in the capital’s Farmgate Khamarbari area. Tarique expressed sorrow, mentioning that RAB members abducted Dhaka city unit BNP leader Sajedul Islam Sumon in December 2013, leaving him disappeared. “We still have not received any information about the whereabouts of our colleague. During the time of autocratic rule, it was not just Suman, but countless others across Dhaka and the entire country were abducted, tortured and murdered,” he said. Decision to ban Awami League lies with govt, EC, not us: Moyeen Khan The BNP leader noted that Sumon's sister, Sanjida Islam Tuli, founded a social organisation in 2014 called Maayer Daak(Call of Mother), bringing together the families of those who disappeared during the autocratic rule. “This is a matter of great concern and astonishment that the police administration raided Sumon’s sister’s house last evening in an attempt to arrest him," he said. Tarique said the police later claimed they were unaware of Sumon’s disappearance. "For the sake of argument, let’s assume they were unaware of Sumon’s case. But a former president, who served during the autocratic regime, was able to leave the country through the airport yesterday (early Thursday)," he said. The BNP leader said former president Abdul Hamid fled the country in a manner almost similar to that of Sheikh Hasina, who escaped on 5 August of the previous year. Tarique said the interim government is now claiming to have known nothing about Hamid’s departure. "Since yesterday, I have spoken to many people, and each one is questioning what the interim government truly knows." At the same time, he said, allegations are emerging that the interim government is wasting time under the guise of reform, possibly to create opportunities for the fleeing autocrats and their associates to leave the country safely. “On the other hand, it may be trying to create grounds to subtly sow division within the unity of anti-autocratic or anti-fascist political parties through various issues. These issues are repeatedly raising questions in the minds of the people,” Tarique said. Tarique reaffirmed his party's position in favour of timely reform of the Constitution by keeping intact the principles of equality, human dignity, and social justice enshrined in the Constitution achieved through the Liberation War. He said the BNP has presented its clear proposal on constitutional reform to the interim government. The BNP leader also underscored the need for establishing democracy and the rule of law for the safety of the people and even the country’s independence and sovereignty. "A country that can ensure the safety of its citizens is one where democracy and the rule of law are guaranteed. One of the key preconditions for ensuring democracy and the rule of law in the country is the establishment of a parliament and government that are accountable to the people, elected directly by the people. If the elected government is made accountable to the people, democracy and the rule of law will be sustainable, as is the case in the most democratic countries,” he said. Stating that people of all religions and communities fought together for Bangladesh’s independence, Tarique said, "This country does not belong to any individual or party. This country belongs to all of us and all the people.” He also called upon all to remain united, as there is now a tremendous opportunity to build a just, democratic nation free from discrimination following the fall of fascism. Tarique congratulated Pope Leo XIII on his election as the Roman Catholic leader, saying, "Let us all hope that, in this war-torn and conflict-ridden world, he (the Pope) will spread messages of peace and comfort among the people." Speaking at the programme, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said every religion teaches people to be good human beings and to maintain harmony. “Indeed, there should be no divisions based on religion. For us, religion is about teaching us to be good people. We must foster unity in society by avoiding conflict over religion. Every religion advocates unity and love,” he said. The BNP leader observed that Christianity is working towards uniting people worldwide and strives to create a world of love. Tarique Rahman's wife Dr Zubaida is set to get back her job as govt physician Fakhrul also highlighted that people from all religions fought with the spirit of brotherhood and unity in 1971 to liberate the country. “We must remain vigilant to preserve that spirit and sense of unity, ensuring that no force can divide us,” he said. He emphasised that BNP does not believe in the concept of majority and minority, as they view all citizens as Bangladeshis, with that being their true identity. Noting that the country is currently facing a critical period, Fakhrul said they, together with other political parties, have been fighting for the last 15 years with the sole aim of establishing a democratic social system where everyone has equal rights and the right to elect their representatives through their votes. “We must build a new, democratic Bangladesh with unity and love,” he said.

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has condemned the military attacks amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, urging all parties to exercise restraint and prioritise a peaceful resolution to the conflict. In a statement posted on his official Facebook page on Tuesday, Tarique Rahman said, “As there is an escalation of tensions in the neighbourhood, we condemn military attacks and extend condolences to the victim families.” Push-ins must follow formal channels: Security Adviser Dr Khalilur “We urge stakeholders to show restraint and take steps for peaceful solution to the conflict,” he said. The BNP leader said a stable and peaceful region, built upon shared interests and aspirations, serves the best interests of all. The renewed tension between India and Pakistan has raised concerns across South Asia, with regional and international actors closely monitoring the situation.

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman on Wednesday expressed heartfelt thanks and gratitude to the thousands of party leaders, activists and common people who welcomed his mother and party Chairperson Khaleda Zia upon her return to Bangladesh from London. In a statement, signed by the party Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi, the BNP said after undergoing four months of medical treatment in the United Kingdom, its Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia returned to Bangladesh on Tuesday and was welcomed by thousands of people who gathered along both sides of the road from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport to her residence in Gulshan-2. “BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman extended his heartfelt greetings and thanks to the general people as well as to the party’s leaders and activists who came to welcome the leader (Khaleda),” the statement read. Besides, the party said, Tarique conveyed his sincere gratitude to members of the Armed Forces (Army, Navy, and Air Force), police, RAB, and Aviation Security, who played a crucial role in maintaining security and discipline and order during the occasion. BNP Standing Committee member Dr AZM Zahid Hossain said Khaleda Zia returned home in a stable physical and mental condition following her treatment in London. On Tuesday, Khaleda Zia, a three-time former Prime Minister, returned home in a festive atmosphere to a rousing reception by thousands of supporters. BNP’s Farroque urges Dr Yunus to hold elections, cites 75% public support She was accompanied by her two daughters-in-law, including Dr Zubaida Rahman, the wife of Tarique Rahman, after nearly four months of advanced medical treatment in London. Thousands of BNP leaders, activists, and supporters, holding banners, placards, flowers, national and party flags, and photographs of Khaleda and Tarique Rahman, gathered along the footpaths from the airport to Khaleda’s residence from early morning. They warmly greeted their beloved leader and party chief as her motorcade passed by. Supporters waved flags, showered flower petals on Khaleda Zia’s vehicle, and chanted slogans in a disciplined manner, expressing their deep affection and support for her. A large number of members of the Armed Forces and various law enforcement agencies were deployed who worked tirelessly to control the crowd, ensure her security, and keep the road clear for the passage of her motorcade. Khaleda Zia had travelled to London on 8 January aboard a special air ambulance arranged by the Emir of Qatar. She returned home on the same aircraft, which landed at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport at 10:42am on Tuesday.

After 17 years in exile, Dr Zubaida Rahman, wife of BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman, is set to return to Dhaka on Tuesday with a plan to stay at her father’s Dhanmondi residence, marking a poignant homecoming. Zubaida is returning home with her mother-in-law and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia, in an air ambulance provided by the Emir of Qatar. She left Dhaka with her husband Tarique Rahman and daughter Zaima Rahman 17 years ago, on 11 September 2008. The house, known as Mahbub Bhaban, is located on Road 5 of Dhanmondi and was the residence of her late father, former Navy Chief Rear Admiral Mahbub Ali Khan and the preparations are underway to welcome Zubaida to her paternal home, where she will be staying with her ailing mother. BNP Media Cell member Atikur Rahman Rumman told UNB that security and renovation works are going on at the residence. “Since Zubaida Rahman is coming to stay at the house, we’re making all arrangements, including decoration, CCTV installation and ensuring all utility services are in order so that she can stay there comfortably,” he said. Rumman said everything will be ready ahead of Zubaida’s arrival. “The Mahbub Bhaban will be fully prepared to receive her.” The Mahbub Bhaban is currently home to Zubaida’s mother, Syeda Iqbal Mand Banu, and the family of her elder sister, Shahina Zaman. Syeda Iqbal Mand Banu was recently admitted to a hospital in Dhaka. Rumman said extensive security measures have been taken at the residence, including the installation of CCTV cameras around the perimeter walls and the deployment of police and BNP Chairperson’s Special Security Force (CSF) personnel. Japan expects restoration of democratic order in Bangladesh: Khosru “The house is already well-kept, but we’ve made additional arrangements in view of Zubaida Rahman’s return,” he said. He said BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has specifically instructed that no security arrangement should cause inconvenience to neighbours. “We’ve been clearly told to avoid any disturbance to surrounding residents. The Chairman wants everything done with care and respect.” Rumman said Mahbub Bhaban features a flower garden at the front and a dedicated guard room for security personnel. He said separate vehicles and a security team have been arranged for Dr Zubaida during her stay in Bangladesh. On 30 April, the BNP Chairperson’s personal secretary, ABM Abdus Sattar, wrote to the Inspector General of Police requesting armed protection, police presence at the residence, and the installation of an archway scanner, citing potential security threats to Zubaida Rahman. Rumman said officials from the police and intelligence agencies have already inspected the house and outlined necessary measures for her safety. Tarique Rahman, Dr Zubaida and their daughter Zaima Rahman have been living in London since 2008. It will be Zubaida’s first return to Bangladesh in 17 years. She became entangled in legal troubles during the 1/11 military-backed caretaker government and the subsequent Awami League administration. On 26 September 2008, the Anti-Corruption Commission filed a case with Kafrul Police Station against Tarique Rahman, Zubaida Rahman and her mother, Syeda Iqbal Mand Banu, for amassing wealth beyond known sources of income. Khaleda to reach Dhaka at 10:30am Tuesday Zubaida was later sentenced to three years in prison and fined Tk 35 lakh by a Dhaka court. It was later stayed following the fall of the Awami League government in August last year. Born in Sylhet May 18, 1972, Zubaida was admitted to Dhaka Medical College at the insistence of her parents after passing her higher secondary examinations with distinction. Zubaida married Tarique Rahman in 3 February 1994. She passed the MBBS examination with the highest merit and began her career as a government doctor through the BCS in 1995. Zubaida ranked first in the Bangladesh Civil Service (BCS-Health) examination. Sheikh Hasina’s government dismissed her from her position after she went to London on study leave in 2008. After moving to London, Zubaida obtained a postgraduate degree in medicine from Imperial College. Zubaida’s father, Rear Admiral Mahbub Ali Khan, served as Chief of the Bangladesh Navy during the government of former President Ziaur Rahman from 4 November 1978 to 6 August 1984. He subsequently served as the Minister of Communications and Agriculture under the government of Hussain Muhammad Ershad. General MAG Osmani, Commander-in-Chief of the Bangladesh Liberation War, was Zubaida’s uncle. BNP sources said the Qatari air ambulance carrying Khaleda and her entourage members, including Dr Zubaida Rahman, and her late son Arafat Rahman Koko’s wife Syeda Sharmila Rahman, along with members of her medical team, will depart from Heathrow Airport at 6:15pm (London time) on Monday. They are expected to reach Dhaka at 10:30am on Tuesday after a stopover in Doha. Khaleda Zia travelled to London on 8 January in the same special air ambulance sent by the Emir of Qatar. Upon arrival, she was admitted to the London Clinic, a private hospital, where she remained under the care of renowned specialists Professor Patrick Kennedy and Professor Jennifer Cross for 17 days. Since 25 January, she has been receiving treatment at the residence of her elder son, Tarique Rahman.

Opposing the interim government’s move to provide a humanitarian corridor for Myanmar's Rakhine State, BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman on Thursday said only an elected parliament can make such a sensitive decision. “The freedom-loving people of the country believe that the decision on whether or not to grant a corridor must come from the people themselves—especifically, through their directly elected National Parliament,” he said while virtually addressing a mammoth rally. In democratic nations around the world, the BNP leader said the standard practice and established norm is to make sensitive decisions involving the country’s sovereignty through parliament. Jatiyatabadi Sramik Dal, the labour wing of BNP, organised the rally in front of the party’s Nayapaltan central office with the participation of thousands of its leaders, activists and workers, marking May Day. In an oblique reference to media reports, Tarique said the interim government has taken a policy decision to allow Bangladesh to be used as a corridor for delivering humanitarian aid to Myanmar’s Rakhine State, which is currently embroiled in internal conflicts. He bemoaned that the interim government had neither informed the public nor felt the need to consult the political parties that represent people on a sensitive matter directly related to the country’s independence and sovereignty. The BNP leader said he did not want to debate at this point whether the interim government can or should make such a decision. “Our position is clear: the interim government must prioritise the interests of the people of Bangladesh above everything —not act to safeguard the interests of foreign powers,” he said. “For us, not Myanmar, India, Pakistan, or any other country—Bangladesh is first and foremost. Above all, this should be our sole objective,” Tarique observed. Sramik Dal’s rally underway at Nayapaltan with huge turnout On Saturday last, Foreign Adviser Touhid Hossain announced that the interim government had, in principle, agreed to allow a humanitarian corridor under UN supervision, subject to certain conditions. He, however, did not provide further details on the matter. Tarique said democratic parties of the country, including the BNP, have continued their unconstitutional support to the interim government in order to establish an elected government accountable to people in a fascism-free Bangladesh. “But the pro-democratic people feel that it is not logical to continue this support for the interim government indefinitely,” he said. The BNP leader emphasised that it is now imperative to establish a government accountable to the people so that fugitive dictators cannot rise again in the country. He said the mantra of becoming a dictator is not written in the constitution or laws of the country; rather, fascism emerges from disobedience to the constitution and laws. Tarique said the journey of fascism begins when a person or a quarter considers himself or themselves indispensable and starts imposing unilateral decisions on the people. “That is why I want to say that it is crucial to establish an elected national parliament and an accountable government of representatives directly elected by the people, so that the latent desire or aspiration in the mind of any individual or quarter to remain in power for a long time without a vote cannot lead the state or government to fascism,” he said. Tarique said a caretaker or interim government is formed after the ouster of a fascist government through a mass uprising. “Such a government formed under special circumstances is not illegal, but a government formed under such special circumstances can never be an alternative to a directly elected government,” he said. He called upon the government to come up with short-term and long-term reform proposals and announce a roadmap for the next national election. “Announce a specific roadmap for the upcoming national election. If the roadmap in the interim government's action plan is clear to the democracy-loving public, their doubts and suspicions will be dispelled,” he said. Tarique said his party believes that both reforms and elections are essential. “Our call to the interim government is to be cautious. A section of the interim government appears to be systematically trying to provoke division among anti-fascist political parties by pitting reforms against elections… Such a perception has started to take root in the minds of the democracy-loving people,” he said. “We urge them (the interim government) to formulate short-term and long-term reform proposals. No political party has any objection,” the BNP leader said. At the same time, he called upon the government to complete the necessary reforms and prepare the law enforcement agencies, judiciary and Election Commission to conduct the national election.

Stating that once-invisible enemies and forces are now becoming visible, BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman on Tuesday urged the party's rank and file to reinforce their unity at any cost to overcome all adversities and uphold the confidence of people. “I told you at a programme seven or eight months ago that we would have to fight against invisible forces…that has now been proven true. Many of those invisible forces, enemies or opponents, are now becoming visible,” he said while virtually addressing three workshops. BNP Training Affair Committee arranged the workshops titled ‘31-point state structure reform proposal and the public engagement’ in Kurigram, Gaibandha and Lalmonirhat districts. Tarique Rahman said there is no alternative to strong unity among BNP leaders and activists across the country to confront the invisible foes with support from people. “We must unite at any cost and we must consolidate the unity among ourselves.” He, however, did not make it clear who these invisible opponents, now beginning to emerge, actually are. Tarique also warned that any BNP leaders or activists engaging in activities opposed by people must be held accountable and removed from the party. “We must not maintain any association with such people. We have to move forward by removing the bad apples.” He said unity among party leaders and workers is also essential for the successful implementation of the BNP’s 31-point state restructuring proposal. BNP calls for CJ appointment from among senior-most Appellate Division judges “If we fail to implement the 31-point proposal, then all your sacrifices, the torture, and the hardships endured over the past 15 years will go in vain,” the BNP leader observed. Tarique reminded party members that people in their localities respect and approach them because of their political identity, as the public continues to place its confidence in the BNP. “We cannot allow this trust in the BNP to be eroded in any way. People will only maintain their faith in us if we ourselves can uphold our unity,” he said. Tarique also cautioned his party colleagues that the people of Bangladesh are their greatest assessors and observers. “The biggest assessors of any political party are people. We must pass that test by doing well for the country, uniting people, and achieving tangible progress. We will do whatever is necessary to bring about positive change,” he said. Tarique said people have confidence in the BNP, which, he said, has historically undertaken significant reform and welfare initiatives for the country and its people. He reaffirmed BNP’s commitment to continuing its good work, promising to implement the 31-point reform proposal if the party returns to power. Tarique also expressed openness to constructive suggestions, stating that the BNP is willing to incorporate positive ideas to further enhance and update the 31-point proposal. BNP joins day 3 talks with Consensus Commission He called upon people from all walks of life to contribute, from their respective positions, to the development of the country. Before addressing the workshops, Tarique responded to various questions from the participants. In reply to one question, he said BNP, if it returns to power, will try to create at least one million small entrepreneurs to generate employment opportunities for the country’s unemployed youths. The BNP acting chairman explained that by setting up small factories and cottage industries, it would be possible to transform Bangladesh into a procurement hub for major global e-commerce giants such as Amazon and Alibaba. Tarique also outlined the BNP’s plans to tackle challenges in the health, education and financial sectors, with the objective of driving economic development and ensuring public welfare.

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman on Monday expressed his profound sorrow and condolences at the passing of Pope Francis. “I am deeply saddened by the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis — a revered spiritual leader whose life exemplified compassion, humility and tireless efforts to foster peace and interfaith dialogue,” he said in a post on his verified Facebook page. Tarique mentioned that the Pope’s moral clarity and unwavering commitment to the dignity of all human beings had earned him the respect and admiration of people across all faiths and nations. “On behalf of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party-BNP and the people of Bangladesh, I convey my deepest condolences to the global Catholic community and all those mourning this great loss,” he said. Bangladesh mourns Pope Francis’ death; Prof Yunus pays tribute The BNP leader also expressed hope that the legacy of Pope Francis would continue to inspire generations to come. Pope Francis, who encouraged Catholics to embrace a more compassionate approach on many issues but struggled to fully address historical abuses by clergy, passed away on Monday at the age of 88.

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has once again extended financial assistance to Julhas Molla, a 28-year-old youth from Manikganj, for the modification and repair of the aircraft he built with his own hands. On behalf of Tarique, BNP Standing Committee Member Salahuddin Ahmed handed over the cash assistance to Julhas at a simple ceremony held at the BNP chairperson’s Gulshan office on Thursday. After receiving the money, Julhas thanked the BNP acting chairman for standing beside him for the second time, demonstrating the party’s sincerity in nurturing talent. Speaking at the programme, Salahuddin Ahmed said, “This programme is a symbolic manifestation of how sincere Tarique Rahman is in recognising talent. He will continue to do so in the future as well.” He said many talented boys and girls like Julhas, in different parts of the country, including rural areas, fall behind prematurely due to the lack of state facilities and support, and thus they cannot become assets to the nation. SDF provides financial assistance to families of martyrs and injured in July-August student uprising The BNP leader said their leader, Tarique Rahman, will stand by talented people who have the potential to become assets to the state if given the right support. He said Tarique has taken the responsibility for many underprivileged people and distressed families through Amra BNP Poribar or under the party’s banner. Salahuddin said BNP works for the country, its people and for supporting meritorious people, regardless of whether the party is in power or not. Earlier on 5 March, Amra BNP Paribar, on behalf of Tarique Rahman, provided financial assistance to Julhas. Julhas Molla, son of farmer Jalil Molla and an electrician from Shaitgar Teota village in Shibalaya upazila, built an ultra-light aircraft and successfully flew it. The aircraft, weighing over 100 kilograms, was entirely handcrafted by Julhas using a mix of aluminum, stainless steel, and iron. 245 injured victims of July-Aug mass uprising given financial assistance: Sargis As he requires financial support to modify the aircraft by installing a new engine and carrying out some repairs, Tarique extended his helping hand to the talented youth.

BNP’s acting chairman Tarique Rahman has sent Eid gifts to the family of Dr Kabirul Islam Rubel, who was killed in police firing during the July uprising. On Tuesday, BNP’s Health Affairs Secretary Dr Md Rafiqul Islam visited the residence of the late Dr Rubel in Mohammadpur, Dhaka, and met with his family members on behalf of Tarique Rahman. During the visit, he handed over Eid gifts as a token of respect and solidarity. Two doctors were martyred during the July uprising. One of them, Dr Sajib, was killed in Uttara, Dhaka, on July 18 last year, while Dr Kabirul Islam Rubel was shot dead in Mohammadpur on August 5 last year. Dr Rubel was a former student of Bangladesh Medical College and served as a senior medical officer at Ispahani Islamia Eye Institute and Hospital. Khaleda exchanges Eid greetings with BNP leaders Earlier, under the directives of Tarique Rahman, BNP’s Health Affairs Secretary Dr Rafiqul Islam, along with a team of medical experts, met with the family of the late Dr Sajib. During the visit, renowned pulmonologist Dr Abdus Shakur Khan, who had been a vocal advocate for the movement through peace assemblies, was also present. The BNP delegation inquired about the well-being of the martyr’s family and assured them of full support in the future.