BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has reminded voters that those campaigning with the 'Scale' symbol opposed the independence of Bangladesh, report agencies.
Speaking during a mass outreach programme on Saturday in Thakurgaon Sadar upazila, Fakhrul recalled how people were forced to flee their homes during the Liberation War and how properties were looted at the time.
He is running from the Thakurgaon-1 seat with the 'Sheaf of Paddy' symbol in the election scheduled for February 12.
His rivals in the constituency include Delwar Hossain of Jamaat with the Weighing Scale symbol and Md Khademul Islam of Islami Andolan with the 'Hand Fan' symbol.
He assured voters that a BNP government would ensure peace and security, particularly for the Hindu community, saying all citizens have equal rights regardless of religion and that the country belongs to everyone.
Fakhrul said BNP leaders and supporters had never left the country during difficult times and remained committed to protecting citizens' rights.
Acknowledging concerns among Hindu voters about intimidation, he said the BNP had stood beside them in the past and would continue to do so if elected.
In an another roadside meeting in the evening, Mirza Fakhrul said the party advocates for 'Yes' vote in the referendum, scheduled for February 12.
"BNP is in favour of a yes vote in the referendum. It has always been in favour of reforms through its 31-point charter," said Fakhrul.
He said the 'family card' introduced by BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman will empower women.
"With this card, mothers and sisters will largely be able to meet daily needs of families. If BNP comes to power, 15 million people will be employed within 18 months," added the veteran BNP leader.
Using the 'farmer card', Fakhrul noted that farmers will be able to avail various facilities related to agriculture.
He also pledged easy and affordable healthcare for all through a 'health card' if voted to power.
"Thakurgaon is an agriculturally rich district. The land produces a variety of vegetables and fruits including mango, litchi, orange and malta. We want to install cold storages here to preserve vegetables and fruits," said Mirza Fakhrul.
