In a stern statement on Wednesday, Prime Minister and Awami League President Sheikh Hasina expressed outrage over a fatal train derailment in Gazipur and accused the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) of attempting to overthrow the government through violence.
Addressing a views exchange meeting with the newly elected committee of the Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI) at Ganabhaban, Sheikh Hasina condemned those responsible for damaging public properties and causing harm to innocent lives. The incident in question involved the cutting of 20 feet of rail track in Sreepur upazila, Gazipur, causing the derailment of eight bogies of the Dhaka-bound Mohanganj Express.
The prime minister said: "Those who cut railway tracks, set people on fire, and kill police officers in a planned manner have no humanity in them. We must stand against them."
She added that individuals committing such acts should face punishment and be held accountable for their actions, mentioning that forgiveness is not warranted for those who deliberately engage in violence.
Describing the train derailment as an attempt to kill people and destabilize the government, Sheikh Hasina questioned the logic behind such actions. "What can they achieve from a movement by killing people?"
She went on to criticize the BNP for its daily arson attacks, hartals, and blockades, questioning the party's understanding of these tactics.
The prime minister asked: "What will be the future of the country if they carry out such activities at a time when we are offsetting the brunt of the global economic recession?"
Sheikh Hasina drew parallels with historical oppression, mentioning the atrocities by Pakistani forces in 1971 and the recent attacks by Israel on Palestine. She expressed concern over attacks on ambulances and police outposts in the name of movements, calling on the people to resist such destructive acts.
The prime minister made it clear that the Awami League is not attempting to seize power unlawfully. She urged the BNP to engage with the democratic process and let the people decide through elections.
She highlighted the development initiatives undertaken during the Awami League's tenure and asserted that they are focused on the progress of Bangladesh.
Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader echoed the Prime Minister's sentiments, condemning the BNP for the train derailment. Quader alleged that the incident was part of a deep conspiracy to disrupt the upcoming national parliamentary election scheduled for January 7.
He declared the derailment as an anti-election conspiracy and emphasized the Awami League's commitment to a peaceful and successful election.
Despite concerns and rumours regarding the political landscape, Quader said that the Awami League would not be deterred. He acknowledged the imperfections of democracy but stressed the need for continuous improvement and vowed to address existing issues.
The train derailment at Bankharia (Chilai river) bridge of Gazipur claimed one life, and investigations are ongoing to determine the full extent of the incident.