Dhaka: Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) on Thursday alleged that the Bangladesh government is playing an opportunistic role regarding the Rohingya issue instead of taking stance on humanitarian grounds.

"The entire world has become vocal over the Rohingya issue. All should get united on the issue of humanity to force Myanmar to stop the atrocities and take back those fled their country in the face of persecution," said BNP secretary general Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir.

Speaking at a discussion, he further said, "But our government is playing an opportunistic role. It's allowing the helpless Rohingya to enter the country on one hand, but it's pushing them back on the other hand."

The BNP leader urged the government to take a stance in favour of humanity, shunning its opportunistic attitude. "Force Myanmar to take back Rohingyas through strong international diplomacy," he added.

Saifur Rahman Smrity Parishad arranged the programme at National Press Club, marking the 8th death anniversary of former Finance Minister Saifur Rahman.

Fakhrul said their party wants the Rohingya issue to be solved through diplomatic efforts and Rohingyas to be taken back ensuring their rights and dignity.

He termed an 'ominous sign' the remarks of Awami League general secretary Obaidul Quader over BNP's programmes announced for Friday over the Rohingya issue.

Pointing at BNP, Quader on Thursday said, "We're worried as they (BNP) engage in internal clashes whenever they call any rally. But they shift the blame on Awami League and the government. We're little bit worried whether they will engage in infighting while going to show humanity for Rohingyas."

The BNP leader also recalled the life and works of Saifur Rahman who placed the national budgets in Parliament on 12 occasions.

The former finance minister was killed in a road accident in Brahmanbaria on his way to Dhaka from his home district of Moulvibazar on September 5, 2009.

President of Saifur Rahman Smrity Parishad Naser Rahman, also eldest son of late Saifur Rahman, presided over the discussion.

BNP leaders Chowdhury Kamal Ibne Yousuf, Fazlul Haque Milon and Ruhul Quddus Talukder Dulu, among others, spoke on the occasion.