Dhaka: Observing that BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia hurts people’s sentiments by cutting her birthday cake on 15 August, Health Minister Mohammad Nasim on Sunday said people will give a befitting reply to her act through votes in the 2019 national elections.

‘15 August is a mourning day to the whole nation. BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia hurts country’s people’s sentiment by cutting her birthday cake out of jealousy on this day.

People will reply to her cake cutting on nation’s mourning day through votes in 2019 election’, he said.

‘Indian High Commission did not celebrate their Independence Day showing respect and honour to the death anniversary of Bangabandhu. But a woman of 70 years of age celebrates her fake birthday on this day. She should be ashamed,’ he added.

Nasim came up with the remarks while addressing a seminar organized by North Bengal Journalist Forum (NBJF) at Jaitya Press Club.

Noting that continuation of government is needed for a balanced development, the AL leader said it has been possible to curb militancy and development of power sector due to continuation of government.

Nasim urged people of all strata to come forward for the sake of the development of North Bengal Region.

State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shahriar Alam, Jatiya Party Presidium Member GM Quader among others spoke on the occasion, with NBJF president Md Modabber Hosssain in the chair.