Following backlash over his remark calling an alleged gang rape in Khagrachhari “fake,” NCP leader Abdul Hannan Masud publicly expressed regret. Masud initially said conspiracies are underway to destabilize the hill districts and accused India of seeking to seize the region; during those remarks he reportedly described the incident as a “fake rape.” The comment sparked controversy and prompted Olik Mru to resign from the party’s central committee. In a Facebook post, Masud stated that heinous crimes like rape cannot be denied under any circumstances and demanded strict punishment for perpetrators. In a subsequent post he admitted that using the phrase “fake rape” was a mistake, expressed embarrassment and remorse, and urged unity between hill and plain communities through dialogue. He also called on law enforcement and the government to hear both sides and to act to restore order.