Staff Reporter :
The BNP on Friday asked the interim government to bring back deposed autocratic ruler Hasina from India and put her before trial over killing of innocent students during the July-August anti-discrimination movement.
“India is supporting crimes and pampering killers by providing refuge to fallen dictator Hasina. Our neighboring country onThursday clearly said Hasina is there. Their statement seems like they behaved like a Big Brother,” BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi said while talking to reporters at Ziaur Rahman’s grave.
On the occasion of the Ziaur Rahman Foundation’s silver jubilee, Rizvi, together with members of the organisation, paid homage to BNP founder Ziaur Rahman by placing a wreath at his grave.
“Hasina is the greatest terrorist and murderer. Who could be a greater terrorist than one who can drink children’s blood? Sheltering her (Hasina) means supporting crime, injustice, and indulging murderers,” the BNP leader said.
He said as Bangladesh has signed the extradition treaty with India, the interim government can take steps to bring Hasina back home through diplomatic efforts since a warrant for her arrest has been issued by a court.
“This matter can be resolved through diplomatic discussions for her extradition. If not, the top terrorists in Bangladesh will find opportunities to take shelter in India and other countries,” Rizvi said.
India’s External Affairs Ministry spokesman Randhir Jaiswal at a press briefing on Thursday said they have seen reports about the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) in Bangladesh issuing a warrant for the arrest of former prime minister Hasina in connection with alleged crimes against humanity committed during the July-August uprising but declined to offer any comment.
“She (Hasina) had come here on a short notice. No change in her status. She continues to stay here,” the BNP leader said.