Bangladesh Unrest Escalates: BNP Criticizes Yunus Government Over Attacks on Indian Mission

Since assuming power in August last year, Mohammad Yunus’ interim government in Bangladesh has faced mounting criticism over its handling of law and order. Following last week’s violent unrest, these concerns have intensified. The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), led by Khaleda Zia, has sharply criticized the government’s failure to maintain stability.

BNP Voices Strong Concerns

Senior BNP leader and former minister Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury addressed CNN-News18, expressing deep concern over the ongoing violence and vandalism. He particularly condemned the attacks targeting Indian diplomatic missions, including the stone-pelting incident at the Indian Assistant High Commission in Chattogram, labeling it as “mob rule.”

Chowdhury stated, “The Yunus administration has failed to control the law and order situation. The ongoing mob violence and uncontrolled protests are being exploited as tools to disrupt the electoral process.”

Delays in Election Preparations

The recent violence erupted following the death of young leader Sharif Usman Hadi, triggering widespread unrest across Bangladesh. During these events, BNP offices, media organizations like Prothom Alo and The Daily Star, and Indian diplomatic missions came under attack and arson.

Chowdhury suggested that these disturbances could be deliberate attempts to hinder the upcoming national elections scheduled for February 12, 2026, emphasizing that the government must restore stability and create a conducive environment for free and fair voting.

Impact on Bangladesh’s Global Image

Highlighting the international implications, Chowdhury warned that attacks on diplomatic missions send a dangerous signal to the world. He stressed, “These are not isolated incidents. They appear to be calculated attempts to destabilize the country, create fear and chaos, and obstruct the democratic and electoral process.”

BNP Stands for Timely Elections

Despite the unrest, the BNP continues to advocate for timely elections. Chowdhury reaffirmed that Bangladeshis are eager and prepared to exercise their right to vote, pointing out that previous elections were largely superficial, denying citizens the full exercise of their voting rights. The BNP urges the Yunus government to take immediate measures to ensure stability and a fair electoral environment.