Dhaka: Amid the growing militant incidents at different parts of Bangladesh, Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) senior leader Moudud Ahmed on Wednesday urged the government to take an initiative for holding dialogue with political parties for eliminating the menace.

Speaking at a discussion, he said the country will get rid of militancy if the government ‘restores’ democracy and people’s voting and other rights.

“You (PM) must take an initiative for dialogue with all parties and people hold alternative opinions if you’re serious about eliminating militancy. I hope good sense will prevail upon the government to take such a step. If you don’t do that, we’ll understand you have any political motive behind the militant incidents,” the BNP leader said.

Jatiyatabadi Muktijoddha Dal, the freedom fighters’ wing of BNP, organised the programme at the Jatiya Press Club.

Moudud, a BNP standing committee member, blamed the government for the emergence of militancy in the country as it has ‘snatched’ democracy. “Militancy has appeared here for lack of democracy. We observe there’s over-enthusiasm and excesses over the issue to draw international attention to make political gains.”

He warned that no one can be benefited from the emergence of militancy. “I would like to say militancy will affect Awami League, the government, the country and all of us.”

The BNP leader also said the government will not be able to suppress militancy only with the help of law enforcers. “Restoration of democracy and people’s rights is the only way to root out extremism. If the country’s people remain united, militancy cannot be spread.”

Mentioning that BNP hates militancy, Moudud said their party will extend all-out cooperation if the government takes any effective step to curb militancy.

About the speculation over the signing of defence deal with India during the Prime Minister’s visit, he said their party is against any deal that goes against the national interests.

The BNP leader urged the government not to sign any agreement sacrificing the country’s interests, and putting its sovereignty at stake.