Fire at NCP MP Nusrat Tabassum's Kushtia Home; Petrol Bomb Attack Alleged

A fire has broken out at the village home of Nusrat Tabassum, a member of parliament from the reserved women's seats and a leader of Nagorik Oikya (NCP), in Kushtia. While there are allegations that miscreants threw petrol bombs to start the fire, the government has stated that the preliminary cause appears to be an electrical short circuit.

In a statement to the Jatiya Sangsad on Thursday (November 12), Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed said an investigation has been ordered to determine whether the fire at the MP's residence was accidental or deliberate. Citing the preliminary investigation report, he said an electrical short circuit appears to be the more likely cause. However, if the investigation finds evidence of sabotage, the government will take action accordingly.

Allegations of Petrol Bomb Attack

Nusrat Tabassum's family has alleged that miscreants threw petrol bombs at the residence, setting it on fire. The incident has sparked panic in the area. Local administration and police have visited the scene and launched an investigation.

Political Context

The fire comes at a time when, following the announcement of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's return to the country after her ouster in the July mass uprising, incidents of cocktail and petrol bomb attacks, arson on vehicles, and hit-and-run attacks have been reported in Dhaka and elsewhere. These acts of sabotage began after the banned organization Chhatra League announced a nationwide 'total strike' on Tuesday via social media last Sunday.

Stance of Jamaat-e-Islami and NCP

Jamaat-e-Islami and the NCP have raised questions about the government's role in these acts of sabotage. However, neither party is currently planning any central program. They have stated they will consider party or coalition programs if the situation becomes more serious. Jamaat-e-Islami, the main opposition party in parliament, suspects that such nationwide sabotage would not be possible without a form of 'indirect cooperation' from law enforcement agencies.

An investigation into the fire at Nusrat Tabassum's residence is ongoing. The government has said it will take further steps upon receiving the investigation report.