Dhaka: Taking a swipe at Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) for its recent anti-Indian remarks, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Saturday alleged that this party came to power in 2001 through giving undertaking to sell gas to India.

"Today, I hear them (BNP) making anti-Indian remarks....when the US company had wanted to sell gas to India just before the national election in 2001, then Khaleda Zia put BNP into power through giving undertaking of selling gas. But, I didn't give such undertaking as I then wanted to utilize the country's resources for the welfare of the country's people,“ she said.

The Prime Minister was addressing the National Council 2017 of Bangladesh Jubo Mohila League held at the auditorium of Krishibid Institution, Bangladesh in the city.

Awami League General Secretary and Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader was present at the dais.

Bangladesh Awami League Women and Children Affairs Secretary Fazilatunnesa Indira, Bangladesh Jubo Mohila League Senior Vice President Zakia Parvin Moni, its General Secretary Apu Ukil, Jubo Mohila League Organizing Secretary Ishrat Jahan Nasrin spoke on the occasion chaired by Bangladesh Jubo Mohila League President Nazma Akhter.

Earlier, the Prime Minister formally inaugurated the National Council through hoisting the national flag and releasing white pigeons.

A one-minute silence was observed in memory of those Jubo Mohila League leaders and workers who laid down their lives in various struggles and democratic movements.

A documentary was also screened highlighting the glorious history of Awami League and Jubo Mohila League in various democratic movements.

The Prime Minister also witnessed dance performed by female and child artistes.