Fakhrul vows to protect Hindu community ahead of polls

BNP Secretary General and Thakurgaon-1 constituency candidate Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has assured the Hindu community of their safety, saying he would stand in the front line to protect them if necessary.

Addressing a roadside election rally at Chilarang union in Thakurgaon-1 constituency on Saturday, Fakhrul said, “Do not be afraid. Go to vote fearlessly and return home safely. I am with you. If it becomes necessary to be the first martyr for your protection, it will be me—and members of my party as well.”

He said it was encouraging that both Hindus and Muslims were united in their thinking.

“Today, Hindus and Muslims are standing together with one belief—that we do not want to support those who practice politics based on religion. This is very clear,” he said.

Referring to a slogan raised by party activists, Fakhrul said he particularly liked it as a symbol of communal harmony -- ‘Hindu-Muslim united alliance, votes will go to the sheaf of paddy.’

The BNP secretary general added, “We have never said that voting for the sheaf of paddy will take anyone to heaven. What we have said is—vote where the country’s interests and people’s welfare are ensured.”

He also alleged that a political group was misleading people by using religion.

“They are claiming that voting for the scale symbol will guarantee entry to heaven. There is no such teaching in Islam. Only those who perform good deeds and follow Allah’s instructions will attain heaven. Such claims are completely misleading,” he said.

Thakurgaon district BNP General Secretary Poygam Ali, along with leaders and activists from district, upazila, union BNP units and affiliated organisations, were present at the rally.