BNP Chairperson’s Adviser and freedom fighter Abdus Salam stated that the BNP does not pursue politics for power but to safeguard Bangladesh’s independence from Indian dominance. Speaking as the chief guest at a discussion titled “7th November, Revolution and the Role of Martyred President Ziaur Rahman” at the National Press Club on November 3, Salam accused the Awami League of establishing a one-party BAKSAL rule between 1972 and 1975, which allegedly undermined democracy and human rights. He described that era as one of severe political and social chaos, marked by hunger and suppression of journalists. According to Salam, the November 7 uprising united the military and civilians to free Ziaur Rahman and entrust him with state leadership. Zia, he claimed, restored order and placed Bangladesh on a path to development, transforming it from a “bottomless basket” to a progressing nation. Salam praised Zia as a visionary reformer who strengthened agriculture, promoted manpower export, and made the country self-sufficient in food. He emphasized that BNP’s current movement represents farmers, workers, and journalists striving to preserve national sovereignty and democracy against foreign influence, particularly from India.