BNP’s Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has stated that despite the fall of the autocratic regime, democracy in Bangladesh remains at risk. He remarked that for the past 17 years, the country had been under the grip of a ruthless dictatorship, akin to Kansa, which had weighed heavily on the people like an immovable burden. However, through a mass uprising of democracy-loving citizens, that autocratic ruler fled Bangladesh on August 5 last year. Yet, despite this development, democracy is still not entirely secure.

Tarique Rahman made these remarks while addressing the biennial conference of the Janmashtami Celebration Council Bangladesh Central Committee as the chief guest. He joined the event virtually on Friday (February 28) at J.M. Sen Hall in Chattogram city.

He further warned that conspiracies to undermine the interim government were still ongoing. According to him, the allies of the exiled dictator are continuously engaged in various strategies to reestablish their influence. Until a government and parliament are formed through direct votes from the people, ensuring full accountability, democracy will remain vulnerable.

Tarique Rahman also urged the Hindu community to remain cautious so that no political group could exploit them for their own interests. He pointed out that a certain faction had used them for political purposes for the past 17 years. If the community has realized this, then it is a significant realization.

He emphasized that without the rule of law, the security of ordinary citizens cannot be ensured. Therefore, for a safe and stable society, no one should be bound by partisan identities. Ensuring justice and equal rights should be a priority over political affiliations.

The conference was presided over by Pradip Chakraborty, the chief of the election management committee of the Janmashtami Celebration Council. BNP Standing Committee Member Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury was the keynote speaker at the event.

Among the distinguished guests were Chattogram City Corporation Mayor Dr. Shahadat Hossain, BNP Central Organizing Secretary Mahbuber Rahman Shamim, Chattogram City BNP Convener Ershad Ullah, and former Member Secretary Abul Hashem Bakkar, who also addressed the gathering.