NCP leaders call for constitutional reform and resist return of political violence during northern region tour

News Body:
Dinajpur, July 4 – National Citizen Party (NCP) Convener Nahid Islam said that the aspirations behind the mass uprising remain unfulfilled, stressing that the spirit of the movement continues to live on in those who still stand vigilant on the streets. Speaking at a street rally at Dinajpur Institute grounds on Friday evening around 6:45 PM, he declared that their movement does not aim for occupation or power, and that any return of violent or oppressive politics would not be tolerated.

“The dream we had during the uprising hasn’t been realized yet,” Nahid Islam stated. “Those who led and supported that movement are still awake and present on the streets. We don’t want control or dominance. We will not allow the return of tyranny or the old regime of terror.”

He also emphasized local economic self-reliance, saying that the crops produced by Dinajpur’s farmers should primarily benefit the people of Dinajpur. “The food grown in Dinajpur must serve the people of Dinajpur first,” he urged.

Addressing the political process, Islam criticized the ongoing delay surrounding the July Declaration, demanding its incorporation into Bangladesh’s future constitution. “We won’t keep deceiving people with empty promises. The July Declaration must be included in the new constitution of Bangladesh.”

Other speakers at the rally echoed similar sentiments. They argued that any constitution that fails to ensure the safety and security of the people is unacceptable. They also called for basic structural reforms before the nation proceeds to any new elections, insisting that a new constitution is necessary to safeguard citizens’ rights.

The rally in Dinajpur marked the fourth day of NCP’s northern region tour, part of its broader campaign titled “The July Journey to Rebuild the Nation,” which aims to promote justice reform and national reconstruction.

Several other senior leaders of the National Citizen Party also addressed the gathering, including Member Secretary Akhtar Hossain, Chief Organizer (Northern Region) Sarjis Alam, Chief Organizer (Southern Region) Hasnat Abdullah, Senior Joint Convener Samanta Sharmin, and Chief Coordinator Nasiruddin Patyari.

Earlier in the day, the NCP delegation visited families of martyrs in Dinajpur and held discussions with them. Prior to arriving in Dinajpur city, they traveled from Thakurgaon, passing through Pirganj, Birganj, and Dashmail. At around 4:45 PM, the leaders reached the Bandhan Community Center in Balubari, then proceeded to Boro Maath. From there, they led a large procession that moved through Bahadur Bazaar and Lili Mor before reaching the Dinajpur Institute grounds where the rally was held.

Following the event, the NCP delegation departed Dinajpur for Bogura, continuing their nationwide campaign.