Dr Shafiq checks poll vibes in Khulna rallies 

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman on Tuesday held a series of election rallies across Khulna division, accusing Satkhira of suffering the country's worst injustices and slamming what he called the "humiliation" of Bangladeshi cricketer Mustafizur Rahman.

Addressing a rally at Satkhira Government Boys' School field, Dr Shafiqur said no district had endured the level of crime and oppression faced by Satkhira.

"Because of one young man we feel proud-Mustafiz made Bangladesh shine on the world stage. Yet he was barred by a neighbouring country from playing even a friendly match. This is an extreme insult to our country and our cricket," he said.
He also criticised the cancellation of a planned T20 match in India, saying Bangladesh was pushed into an embarrassing position. "We proposed Sri Lanka as a venue and were ready to play there, but the ICC rejected this reasonable demand. We are disappointed and humiliated," he said, urging the ICC to review its decision.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

* Promises to turn Jashore into city corpn and build a 500-bed hospital at JMC
* Indian refusal to Mustafiz in playing IPL is a disrespect to Bangladesh, Dr Shafiq says lambasting long-standing neglect
* In 2015, I reached 45 families of martyrs and saw bulldozed houses of the innocent people in Satkhira
* Pledges a country free from extortion in Bagerhat

Referring to alleged repression in Satkhira, Dr Shafiqur claimed Jamaat leaders' houses were bulldozed despite no crimes being committed. Recalling his 2015 visit, he said he travelled by motorcycle to meet families of those killed.

"I went to wipe the tears of mothers and sisters and comfort children who lost their fathers," he said.

He also alleged long-standing neglect of the district. "People say Satkhira has been treated like a stepchild for standing up for justice. But Allah honours whom He wills," he added.

The Satkhira rally was chaired by district Jamaat Ameer Shahidul Islam Mukul. Jamaat Secretary General Professor Mia Golam Porwar and parliamentary candidates from four Satkhira constituencies also addressed the gathering.

Earlier in the day, speaking at a rally at Jashore Eidgah ground, Dr Shafiqur pledged enhanced security and facilities for women, including special buses and toilets, and promised freedom to dress according to religious beliefs.

Rejecting family-centric politics, he said, "We are not seeking Jamaat's victory; we are seeking the victory of 180 million Bangladeshis."

He promised to upgrade Jashore to a city corporation, build a 500-bed hospital at Jashore Medical College, and improve infrastructure.

On the upcoming referendum, he urged voters to choose "Yes," calling it a vote for freedom.

"A 'No' means slavery. The first vote on February 12 will be 'Yes,' followed by votes for party symbols," he said.

He also warned against attacks on women campaigners. "You cannot promise family cards to women while assaulting them during campaigns. The two cannot coexist," he said, indirectly referring to a BNP-aligned group.

In the afternoon, Dr Shafiqur addressed a major rally at Khulna's Circuit House field, introducing 11-party alliance candidates for six constituencies and distributing election symbols.

Targeting BNP again, he said, "Those who promise family cards to mothers yet assault them cannot be trusted. People now know where the country and its resources are safe."

Addressing youth, he said Jamaat would prioritise employment over allowances. "We don't want to insult you with handouts. We want to honour your skills and labour. Your sacrifices during the July Uprising must be repaid."

On Khulna's economy, he said industry and agriculture had been devastated by floods, salinity and embankment breaches. "If Allah gives us responsibility, development priorities will be decided with you. Resources will remain in your hands-not our ancestors'," he said.

Warning of rising election violence, he said, "Attacks have already begun. If this continues, the consequences will be severe. Trust the people's verdict-history is unforgiving to those who ignore it."

In the evening, Dr Shafiqur addressed another rally at Khan Jahan Ali Shatgombuj Union field in Bagerhat, pledging to end extortion and safeguard voting and food rights.