Citizen Initiative is deeply concerned and outraged by the reported attack in Habiganj on National Citizen Party (NCP) central leaders Nasiruddin Patwari and Sarjis Alam, along with other party leaders and activists. According to reports published in various media outlets, Nasiruddin Patwari and Sarjis Alam were injured in the incident. The NCP has blamed activists of Bangladesh Jatiotabadi Chhatra Dal, the student wing of the ruling political party BNP, for the attack. We strongly condemn and protest this act of violence.

The July Mass Uprising represented the aspiration to build a Bangladesh based on equality, democracy, and tolerance. It is deeply disappointing and unacceptable to see allegations of political violence against individuals associated with political forces that have played important roles in past movements to restore democracy and have themselves faced political persecution for years. Differences of opinion can never be addressed through attacks, intimidation, or violence.

We call upon the relevant government authorities to conduct a prompt, impartial, and transparent investigation into the incident. Regardless of the political affiliation of those involved, every individual or group responsible for the attack must be brought under the law and held accountable through due process.

At the same time, we urge the central leadership of the BNP to take the necessary organizational measures in response to these allegations, make a clear public position against political violence, and take effective steps to prevent the recurrence of such incidents in the future.

Submitted by
Public Relations
Citizen Initiative