BNP leader Salahuddin Ahmed expressed concern over long-standing domestic and international conspiracies regarding the Chittagong Hill Tracts. He urged everyone to remain vigilant so these conspiracies do not succeed, stressing the importance of embracing a united Bangladeshi identity. He emphasized that language, a single culture, or religion alone does not define a nation — rather, it is the unity of all linguistic groups, religions, and ethnic communities. Salahuddin also noted that affirmative action exists to integrate marginalized groups into the mainstream, though it may not be needed in 50 to 100 years. Criticizing political attempts to divide the nation, he said, “Even after fifty years of independence, we are divided into sides and factions. Those who opposed the Liberation War have not denied our victory.”