BNP to Seek Teesta Water Share at UN if Elected

BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman. Photo:BSS

Speaking virtually at the closing ceremony of a 48-hour public rally organized by the Teesta River Protection Movement, Rahman criticized the Awami League government for failing to secure a fair water share from India, leading to the desertification of riverbanks in Bangladesh's northern region.

"The people of the northern region, deprived of Teesta water, are demanding that Bangladesh receive its rightful share of the river, a matter of international law—not charity from India," Rahman stated. "But instead, we find ourselves protesting for basic rights to water from an international river."

Rahman also targeted former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, referring to her as the "murderer who fled to India on August 5," claiming she prioritized India's interests over those of Bangladesh. "India maintained relations with Sheikh Hasina, not with Bangladesh," he added.

He emphasized that, under international law, Teesta water belongs to Bangladesh, and the failure to secure this right has led to severe flooding, agricultural losses, and the silting of many rivers, including Teesta. Rahman also accused the River Commission of being ineffective for the past 16 years due to India's influence.

"While we seek peaceful relations with our neighbors, they must be based on our country's interests," Rahman said. "If India refuses to give us our due water rights, we will take the matter to the United Nations."

The Teesta River Protection Movement organized rallies at 11 locations across Lalmonirhat, Nilphamari, Rangpur, Kurigram, and Gaibandha districts, drawing massive participation. BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir inaugurated the program, with several BNP leaders, including Standing Committee members and Vice-Chairmen, attending various rally sites.

The main organizer of the rallies was BNP Organizing Secretary Asadul Habib Dulu.