Rashed Pradhan, vice president and spokesperson of the National Democratic Party (JAGPA), declared that Bangladesh’s political decisions will be made on the streets of Dhaka, not in Delhi. He made the remarks on Saturday, May 16, at an event marking the 50th anniversary of Farakka Day, organized by Jubo JAGPA at the Shafiul Alam Pradhan Auditorium in Paltan. Pradhan invoked the teachings of Maulana Bhasani, emphasizing resistance against dominance and defending national sovereignty.

During his speech, Pradhan described the Farakka Barrage as an assault on Bangladesh’s sovereignty, linking it to ongoing issues such as border killings, illegal push-ins, cultural aggression, and interference in domestic politics. He urged the Indian government to understand that friendship cannot be built through barbed wire fences and called for an end to Indian dominance in the region.

Pradhan further criticized what he described as India’s aggression and the rise of extremist Hindutva, warning that peace cannot be achieved through oppression of minorities or interference in neighboring states. Several JAGPA leaders and youth representatives also addressed the discussion meeting.