BNP leader Asaduzzaman Ripon has warned that any delay in holding the national election could plunge Bangladesh into a deeper democratic crisis and spark instability.

He criticized some political factions for advocating proportional representation and direct elections for women’s seats, accusing them of trying to derail the electoral process because they lack the capacity to field candidates in all 300 constituencies.

Ripon also raised concerns over India’s role in bilateral relations, alleging that New Delhi is pressuring Bangladesh through trade restrictions and sanctions. He questioned whether India seeks to be a friend to the Awami League alone or to the people of Bangladesh.