BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi on Sunday demanded a fair investigation into the arson attacks and violence across the country and called for visible punishment for those responsible.

“The recurring series of clandestine attacks is creating panic and raising numerous questions among the public, which is alarming for the state,” he said.

Rizvi made the remarks while talking to media after visiting a victim of a recent arson attack from Lakshmipur, who is currently undergoing treatment at the National Institute of Burn and Plastic Surgery in the city.

The senior BNP leader said, “The people of this country want to see visible punishment for the clandestine attacks occurring nationwide, including the one on Inqilab Moncho spokeperson Sharif Osman Hadi.

“People want justice…It is the government’s responsibility to investigate into these incidents and identify the real perpetrators. If there is any deficiency in this regard, people will interpret it in various ways and become fearful,” he added.

Rizvi further noted that questions have arisen in the public mind regarding whether a major conspiracy is underway. This plot, he suggested, could be centred on the elections or intended to create widespread confusion.

“There is also public concern over whether foreign powers or their local associates are attempting to destabilise the country,” he added.

Regarding the government’s role, the BNP leader said, “This government is supported by the people. As a government backed by a democratic movement, the people expect and desire that they will weigh all factors and suppress these miscreants with an iron hand.”

BNP Joint Secretary General Shahid Uddin Chowdhury Annie, Health Affairs Secretary Dr Rafiqul Islam, and other party leaders accompanied Rizvi during his visit to the health facility.