‘Why attack state property? Are they against Bangladesh?’

Expressing resentment over destruction carried out by Hefajat-e-Islam in various places including Brahmanbaria and Hathazari, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Benazir Ahmed asked, "Why are state establishments being attacked repeatedly? Are they against the state that is Bangladesh?"

He was speaking to reporters at the Brahmanbaria Press Club after inspecting the affected areas of the district this afternoon.

The IGP said, "We see such horrible attacks happening in Brahmanbaria almost every year. Hathazari is also being attacked in the same way. Repeatedly state property is being destroyed. Is their position against the state?"

He said, "I want to make it clear to the people of Brahmanbaria that 18 crore Bangladeshis are with you. Together we can overcome fear."

The police chief said people in Brahmanbaria have the right to safety and security. "We will ensure this right. Those who have videos and pictures of the attacks should provide them to the police. File cases and we will take action," he said.

"What have we achieved in the last 50 years? Repeatedly, communal groups are attacking the non-communal Bangladesh, which was liberated in exchange of 30 lakh martyrs," he went on.

He said land offices in Brahmanbaria and Hathazari have been set on fire. "It is not certain whether this record system can be restored in the next 50 years. Thousands of people will suffer," he said.

The police chief said the people of Bangladesh traditionally follow their own religion. Those who are in the "business of religion", have two characters. They conduct waaz and procession with sticks, he said.

"We now need to understand the difference between the truly religious people and those who do business over religion," said the IGP.