Mob violence a major problem, right-wing groups gaining strength: Fakhrul to TBS
In an exclusive interview with TBS Executive Editor Shakhawat Liton, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir also says indiscriminate filing of cases for money remains a police culture that the home ministry has completely failed to stop
BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has warned that mob violence has become one of the country's biggest problems, while right-wing forces are growing stronger, especially in the aftermath of last year's political change.
In an exclusive interview with TBS aired today (6 September), Fakhrul said if mob violence is not stopped, it will be extremely harmful for the country.
He acknowledged that both the government and political parties share responsibility for addressing the problem, though he said the BNP has always opposed mob violence.
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The veteran political leader also expressed concern about the growing influence of hardline groups.
"Unfortunately, in recent times, we have seen the rise of right-wing elements. Some groups and individuals are openly stating that those who say anything that goes against Shariah will not be tolerated, that women will be controlled," he said.
"This is against the kind of inclusive, liberal democratic society we want to build."
He told TBS that such forces had existed earlier, "but after August 5, they have become stronger, their activities and propaganda more visible."
When asked if many of these forces are involved in mob violence, Fakhrul said, "Our experience suggests so, and newspaper reports also indicate the same."
He reiterated that democracy and continuous political engagement are the only ways to curb mob culture and extremist tendencies.
The BNP leader also criticised the interim government's way of handling law enforcement, pointing to widespread allegations of indiscriminate filing of cases for money.
"This is still a culture within the police, and the home ministry has completely failed to stop it."
He added that the interim administration is trying, but deep-rooted problems in state institutions remain.
TBS Multimedia today released the first of a three-part interview with Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir. The second instalment will focus on the next parliamentary election, while the third will explore what a BNP government might look like. For the full interview, stay tuned to The Business Standard's website and multimedia platforms.
