Attack on Patwary: Asif Mahmud threatens 'violent response' if attackers not arrested

National Citizen Party spokesperson Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuyain has warned of strong retaliation if those responsible for the attack on the party's Chief Coordinator Nasiruddin Patwary are not arrested by Friday night.

Speaking at a programme at the Kazi Nazrul Islam Auditorium of the National Press Club in Dhaka on Friday afternoon (22 May), Asif Mahmud said the opposition had repeatedly shown goodwill, but alleged that the ruling BNP government was choosing "violence" as a political strategy, reports Prothom Alo.

"If you choose violence, we will also be forced to choose violence," he said, warning that his party and its supporters were capable of mounting stronger resistance, as demonstrated during the July 2024 mass uprising.

The remarks came in reaction to an alleged attack on Nasiruddin Patwary in Jhenaidah earlier in the day. Asif demanded the immediate arrest of all those involved, claiming that video footage and photographs had already identified the attackers.

He also warned the government against escalating political confrontation, saying any conflict would not be limited to a political party or ideology but would involve an entire generation.

"This generation already proved its strength during the 2024 uprising. Sheikh Hasina made the mistake of confronting this generation; hopefully Tarique Rahman will not repeat it," he said.

Asif Mahmud further accused the government of failing to ensure public safety since the national election, alleging increases in murder, rape, and insecurity across the country.

He also criticised Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed, claiming he was either failing or unwilling to properly discharge his responsibilities.

The comments were made at an event where 229 leaders and activists from Dhaka chapters of United People's Bangladesh, a political platform formed by former leaders of Islami Chhatra Shibir, joined the NCP.