The political parties of Bangladesh have vowed to stand united in defense of the country’s independence, sovereignty, and dignity, pledging full support to the interim government. They have also urged decisive action against India’s alleged propaganda, interference, and provocation.
In a joint dialogue held on Wednesday afternoon, top leaders from across the political spectrum affirmed their commitment to national unity during a meeting with the Chief Advisor of the interim government, Dr. Muhammad Yunus.
Call for Unity Amid Rising Tensions
Opening the dialogue, Dr. Yunus emphasized the need for solidarity, citing ongoing conspiracies aimed at destabilizing the country following the recent student uprising. “The freedom we achieved was a collective effort. It was not gained through division or by suppressing others. We must preserve this unity to protect our sovereignty,” he stated.
The political climate has grown tense since the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s government on August 5. Relations with India have been strained due to allegations of minority persecution, the murder of Sammilita Sanatani Jagran Jote spokesperson Chinmoy Krishna Das, and an attack on Bangladesh’s Assistant High Commission in Agartala. In this context, the Chief Advisor convened representatives from 35 political parties and organizations, including BNP, Jamaat-e-Islami, Islamist groups, and leftist parties, to foster unity.
Consensus Despite Ideological Differences
Legal Advisor Asif Nazrul, Industrial Advisor Adilur Rahman Khan, and Advisor Mahfuz Alam also participated in the dialogue, held at the Bangladesh Foreign Service Academy. Briefing journalists afterward, Asif Nazrul said, “While there are ideological differences among the political parties, all participants unanimously pledged to prioritize the country’s independence and sovereignty above all else.”
Proposals during the meeting included holding joint rallies and forming political and security councils. Leaders reaffirmed their shared commitment to Bangladesh’s dignity and sovereignty, with the central message being: the country comes first.
United Response to External Threats
The meeting strongly condemned India’s alleged anti-Bangladesh activities, including the Agartala attack and cultural and economic hegemony. Participants expressed appreciation for the interim government’s bold stance against these actions and urged even stronger measures. They proposed seeking support from international allies, enhancing diplomatic communication, and inviting global media to counter propaganda.
The gathering also called for transparency regarding agreements made with India during the Awami League’s tenure, particularly those deemed harmful to national interests, such as the Rampal power plant project.
Strength in Communal Harmony
The leaders emphasized the importance of maintaining communal harmony in the face of provocations. A proposal was made to hold unity rallies in all 64 districts, celebrating the contributions of all communities in countering external pressures. “We must reject any sense of weakness or submission,” said Asif Nazrul. “We will stand united and courageous against any propaganda or provocation.”
Collective Determination
The BNP, represented by a five-member delegation led by standing committee member Khandaker Mosharraf Hossain, echoed this sentiment. “We agree with the government on countering conspiracies aimed at dividing the people of Bangladesh. Together, we will confront and overcome these challenges, just as the people overthrew the fascist regime through their uprising,” he declared.
This unprecedented unity among diverse political factions underscores a shared resolve to safeguard the nation’s independence, sovereignty, and dignity amid rising regional tensions.
