The International Crisis Group, a Brussels-based non-government organisation, has suggested the government to pursue a non-repressive response to political dissent and BNP to commit to non-violent political opposition, refrain from an alliance with the Jamaat-e-Islami.

‘Awami League government should commit to a non-repressive response to political dissent, rein in and ensure accountability for abuses committed by law enforcement entities, reverse measures that curb civil liberties and assertively protect minority communities against attack and dispossession of properties and businesses,’ according to a crisis report of the organisation.

The report, released on Monday, also says BNP should commit to non-violent political opposition, refrain from an alliance with the Jamaat-e-Islami that is enhancing the Islamist opposition's street power with little political return for the BNP.

It further says BNP should also demonstrate willingness to engage in meaningful negotiations with the Awami League to end a crisis that is undermining economic growth and threatening to subvert the political order.

The report, titled Mapping Bangladesh's Political Crisis, says the AL should invite the BNP, at lower levels of seniority if needed, to negotiations aimed at reviving the democratic rules of the game, including electoral reform.

It should also hold mayoral elections in Dhaka, a long-overdue constitutional requirement that would provide opportunities to begin that dialogue.

The executive summary of the report says a protracted and violent political crisis would leave Sheikh Hasina and Khaleda Zia the ultimate losers, particularly if a major breakdown of law and order were to encourage the military to intervene; though there is as yet no sign of that, history suggests it is an eventuality not to be dismissed.