India disrespected July martyrs by allowing Sheikh Hasina to speak: Rizvi

BNP Senior Joint Secretary General and Political Adviser to the Prime Minister Ruhul Kabir Rizvi has said that India "disrespects" the martyrs of the July uprising by allowing ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina to deliver a political address from New Delhi.

Speaking to reporters after paying tribute at the graves of BNP founder Ziaur Rahman and former prime minister Khaleda Zia at Sher-e-Bangla Nagar on Thursday (August 6), Rizvi said the decision to provide Hasina with a platform for political remarks had negatively affected Bangladesh-India bilateral relations.

He also criticised India for not returning the "absconding accused" to Bangladesh despite the existence of legal provisions, alleging that allowing her to engage in political activities from Indian soil amounted to disrespect for Bangladesh's national sovereignty.

Rizvi further claimed that permitting Sheikh Hasina to speak on the anniversary of her departure from Bangladesh reflected Delhi's deliberate backing, describing the move as deeply regrettable.

The event was organised to mark the 37th founding anniversary of the Doctors Association of Bangladesh (DAB). DAB President Prof. Dr. Harun Al Rashid, Secretary General Dr. Md. Zahirul Islam Shakil, and other leaders attended the programme, followed by prayers for the departed souls of Ziaur Rahman and Khaleda Zia.

Responding to questions on the country's gas shortage, measles outbreak and dengue situation, Rizvi said the government was working around the clock to address the ongoing challenges.