EP concerned over BD political stalemate

The human rights sub-committee of European Parliament (EP) has expressed grave concern over the prevailing political stalemate in Bangladesh, and blamed the 'rigid stance' of  the two major political parties for the situation.
A delegation of the sub-committee also observed on Thursday that extremist groups might come into sight, if the opposition is sidelined, according to private TV channels and online news portals.
The Bangladesh issue came up for discussion at the sub-committee meeting in Brussels, following the delegation's visit to Dhaka on February 17-20.
The sub-committee, however, observed that holding a fresh election in Bangladesh could be a solution to the ongoing crisis, arisen out of the top leaders' animosity towards each other.
Terming the security situation in Bangladesh 'tense and worsening', the committee also stressed the need for 'staying engaged' with Bangladesh in such circumstances.
About the issuance of arrest warrant against BNP chairperson Khaleda Zia, a member of the sub-committee - Josef Weidenholzer - said: "We took note that arrest warrant has been issued against Khaleda Zia, who is  the head of the opposition."
"Though it is not implemented yet, I'm afraid it will lead to dramatic escalation... the arrest will be very problematic," he added.
The three-member EP team, led by Cristian Dan Preda, held more than 20 meetings with stakeholders during their visit.
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