Dhaka: Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) on Friday said it wants the government to resolve the dispute with India over the share of waters of the common rivers through talks.

In a statement issued on the occasion of historic Farakka Long-March Day, the party said, ‘Bangladesh’s ecology and biodiversity is under serious threat as the dispute with neighbouring India over sharing of waters of the common rivers has been left unresolved.’

‘This crisis will be removed and a fair share of waters will be ensured through discussions. On the occasion of the historic Farakka Long-March Day BNP expects that,’ it added.

The party also showed its deep respect in memory of Maulana Bhasani recalling his role in drawing international attention to ensure Bangladesh’s fair share of the Ganges water by staging a long march towards Farakka barrage on 16 May 1976.

Maulana Abdul Hamid Khan Bhasani led the massive long march from Rajshahi towards India's Farakka barrage on that day, demanding demolition of the barrage constructed by the Indian government to divert flow of Ganges water inside its territory.

Thousands of people participated in the long march and staged demonstration protesting construction of the barrage.