The National Citizens' Party (NCP) leadership has been gripped by deep anxiety following two consecutive attacks on its senior figures, raising fears of a coordinated campaign to intimidate the party. The incidents, involving an acid attack on student leader Hasibul Islam in Moulvibazar and a petrol bomb attack on the ancestral home of Member of Parliament Nusrat Tabassum in Kushtia, have sparked political turmoil across the country.
In response, the NCP organized a torch rally and assembly in Dhaka on Thursday night, marching from Banglamotor to Shahbagh intersection. Protesters chanted slogans including "Nusrat has no fear, we will not leave the streets," while also demanding that Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed vacate his position. Party and affiliate organization leaders addressed the gathering held in front of Rupayan Trade Centre prior to the march.
Suspected Coordinated Attacks
NCP leaders believe the two incidents are not isolated but part of a broader strategy to destabilize the country. The party suspects that the current BNP-led government has failed to ensure security and may be employing these tactics to intimidate the NCP. Internal party analysis suggests the attacks could be a deliberate attempt by the BNP to create fear among opposition ranks.
MP Nusrat Tabassum had previously filed a general diary (GD) with police after receiving threats. The attack on her Kushtia residence reportedly involved petrol bombs thrown by alleged Awami League activists, setting the property ablaze.
Parliament Erupts Over Minister's Statement
The Home Minister's remarks regarding the arson attack on Nusrat Tabassum's home sparked heated exchanges in Parliament. Opposition members strongly criticized the minister's statement and demanded an impartial investigation into the incident. The session witnessed intense verbal confrontations between treasury and opposition benches as the debate escalated.
NCP leaders have warned that such incidents are further destabilizing the country's political environment. They have called for swift investigations and the arrest of those responsible. Sources indicate the party may announce further protest programs in the coming days in response to the attacks.
