DHAKA: Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) would stage a long march after Eid-ul-fitr in a showdown against the government decision allowing India transit facilities.

“Two separate long marches -- one from Dhaka toward Chittagong and the other toward Sylhet – are being planned so far. The protest programme will be declared before or after Eid-ul-Fitr,” a senior leader of the party told banglanews24.com.bd.

The long-haul highway processions are aimed at mobilizing public opinion and mounting pressure on the government to nullify the transit deal with India and cancel all treaties which they think run counter to country’s interest.

The leader said the long march toward Sylhet would highlight demand for stopping the Tipaimukh dam designed by India while the other one toward Chittagong will press for canceling the government decision to allow India to use Chittagong and Mongla seaports.

BNP vice-hairman Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury admitted that programmes like long march were being discussed among the policymakers of the party which “ou may come to know soon”

Asked about the date for agitation, BNP standing committee member Gayeswar Chandra Roy did not make any direct comment.

He said: “We will continue programmes against the government’s move. We observed `mass rally’ a few days ago and stern programme will be announced soon for the near future.”

Party sources said the 13-point demand that was spelt out from the pre-mass march rally by Khaleda Zia would be pressed during the road marches.

BDST: 1902 HRS, AUGUST 13, 2010