The Bangladesh Retired Police Officers Welfare Association has strongly condemned alleged Indian aggression and anti-Bangladesh activities. In a statement submitted to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Wednesday, the association outlined six key demands and pledged their readiness to protect the nation’s sovereignty at all costs.

The statement accused the Indian government of supporting efforts to undermine democracy in Bangladesh and promoting a regime of mafia dominance. It also criticized the Indian media for disseminating baseless and negative propaganda about Bangladesh, particularly fabricating narratives of attacks on minorities. The retired police officers emphasized their unwavering commitment to the defense of the country’s independence and sovereignty.

The protest, organized by the welfare association, began with a march from Rajarbagh and moved through Shantinagar, Kakrail, and Segunbagicha before culminating in a brief rally in front of the National Press Club. During the rally, the speakers voiced their demands, reiterating their dedication to resisting any threats to the nation.

Prior to the rally, a memorandum detailing their six-point demands was submitted to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The association's demands included the immediate cessation of anti-Bangladesh propaganda and activities, improved security measures for Bangladesh High Commission premises in India, and the repatriation of Sheikh Hasina to face allegations against her. Additionally, they called for an end to border killings, the disclosure of any secret agreements between Bangladesh and India, the reevaluation of discriminatory treaties, and the development of a world-class healthcare system within Bangladesh to address the nation’s needs.

Speakers at the rally accused Sheikh Hasina of operating under Indian patronage and engaging in subversive activities from abroad. They alleged that Hasina has been virtually participating in discussions and delivering speeches that they described as provocative and treasonous, with no action taken by the Indian government to prevent this. The speakers criticized India for disregarding Bangladesh’s requests to curb such activities.

Concerns were raised over the security of Bangladeshi diplomatic establishments in India, particularly in Kolkata and Tripura, where incidents of national flag desecration and effigy burning were reported. These actions, the speakers claimed, have deeply hurt the sentiments of the Bangladeshi people and reflect India’s failure to uphold diplomatic norms and provide adequate security.

The retired officers highlighted their proud legacy, recalling the historic role played by the police force in resisting the Pakistani military during the 1971 Liberation War. They stated their readiness to stand firm against any threats to Bangladesh’s sovereignty, vowing to rise in defense of the nation once again if required.

Among the prominent figures present at the rally were the association’s president and former DIG M. Akbar Ali Khan, secretary-general and former SP Mia Lutfur Rahman, former IGP Ashraful Huda, and other members, including retired SP Abdur Rahman. They emphasized the importance of national unity and vigilance in the face of external threats.

The gathering concluded with a renewed pledge from the participants to protect the country’s independence and sovereignty. They underscored their determination to hold accountable those who threaten the nation’s security and stability.