No clemency for saboteurs: PM

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina (Collected images)

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina declared today that those engaged in acts of sabotage to overthrow the government will not be granted clemency but will face consequences. Addressing the train accident resulting from the BNP-Jamaat clique's disruption of rail tracks in Gazipur during a hartal and blockade, she urged the public to stand against such actions.

During an exchange of views with the recently elected committee of the Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI) at her official residence in Ganabhaban, the premier disclosed that a 20-foot section of rail track was cut with a gas cutter machine in Sreepur upazila, Gazipur, causing the derailment of eight bogies of the Mohonganj Express. The incident resulted in one fatality and several injuries.

Characterizing the incident as an attempt to harm people by derailing train bogies, Sheikh Hasina emphasized that those behind such actions seek to overthrow the government through lethal means. She condemned the use of violence for political purposes, asserting that politics should not involve endangering lives.

She criticized BNP activists for their involvement in past acts of terrorism and arson, emphasizing their consistent engagement in violent activities such as strikes and blockades that lead to the destruction of public property.

Expressing dismay over these actions, the Prime Minister questioned the future of the country when faced with such challenges during a global economic recession. She highlighted the government's commitment to development and urged the BNP to pursue power through democratic means rather than resorting to destructive methods.

In conclusion, Sheikh Hasina emphasized the importance of the people resisting such violent tactics and expressed hope for continued development in Bangladesh. She also congratulated the newly elected FBCCI committee led by President Mahbubul Alam, elected in August 2023 for the 2023-2025 tenure, and acknowledged the challenges faced by the business community.