Dhaka: ‘Evil forces are weakening the unity, security and sovereignty of our country by inhumanly destroying democratic rights of the people,’ said Bangladesh Nationalist Party Chairperson Khaleda Zia.

In a statement marking Martyr Intellectuals’ Day she said on Sunday, ‘Anti-democratic forces just after the independence striped off their masks and established one-party rule by throwing away democracy.’

She said, ‘The ruling section is hampering the national development by discrimination, discord and conservatism. So we must be united to make our country enriched, self-dependent and strong. We must be sincere in performing our own duties.’

Khaleda in her statement said, 14 February is a day to mourn. She prayed for those who fell victim to the Pakistani forces and their collaborators.