Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has made it clear that if the BNP comes to power, no militant group from India’s Seven Sister states will be allowed to use Bangladeshi soil. He noted that the BNP had previously assured India on this issue, but Bangladeshis have grown distant from India due to the Indian government’s one-sided policy, which has been overly focused on the Awami League.

Mirza Fakhrul stated, "While India played a crucial role in Bangladesh's liberation war, the new generation in Bangladesh is becoming increasingly anti-India. India must not only engage with a particular political party but also build relationships with the people of Bangladesh. There needs to be a focus on 'people-to-people' ties."

India Relations and Security Policy

Q: What will be your policy regarding India's Seven Sister states if the BNP comes to power?

A: If the BNP comes to power, we will ensure that Bangladeshi soil is not used by any militant groups from India’s Seven Sister states. This has been our clear stance, which we have previously assured India. However, due to India’s one-sided policy focusing solely on the Awami League, the Bangladeshi people have grown distant from India. Even though India played a significant role in Bangladesh’s liberation war, it should build ties with all political parties in Bangladesh. This will foster mutual understanding and make it easier to resolve any issues that arise.

Policy on the Sea and Islands

Q: Will the BNP take any steps regarding the rights given to the U.S. to drill for oil and gas in 15 wells in Bangladesh's sea if it comes to power?

A: I have no information on this matter. I am unaware if such wells even exist.

Q: What is the BNP's stance on Saint Martin’s Island?

A: I do not think the U.S. has shown any interest in Saint Martin’s Island. Sheikh Hasina has been spreading the narrative that she was removed from power because she did not give Saint Martin to the U.S., trying to cover up her failures. In reality, she is attempting to shift the blame for the public uprising against her government onto the U.S.

Protection of Minorities and Legal Framework

Q: What laws will the BNP introduce for the protection of minorities if it comes to power?

A: The BNP does not consider any Bangladeshi citizens as minorities. No citizen in this country is a minority. However, if the BNP comes to power, we will consult with party members and take necessary steps to introduce legal protections for the Hindu, Christian, and Buddhist communities. Currently, incidents like the burning of Hindu homes and temples are being carried out by Awami League activists. Furthermore, they are presenting false data to foreign entities about atrocities against Hindus in an attempt to cover up their involvement in student murders.

- With Agency Inputs