Land Minister Alleges ‘Helmet Group’ Has Become Hidden Force Now

Land Minister Mizanur Rahman Minu has claimed that the so-called “helmet group”, which he alleged was used during the previous Awami League administration to suppress BNP activists, has now transformed into a “covert force” allegedly involved in creating unrest and destabilising the country through orchestrated mob activity.

He made the remarks on Friday afternoon while addressing a discussion meeting organised by the district unit of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) in Rajshahi. The event was held at a local community centre to mark Independence and National Day observances.

Allegations of continued political intimidation

Speaking as the chief guest, the minister alleged that individuals who were previously active in what he described as politically motivated attacks have now re-emerged in a different form.

According to him, these elements are now operating in a more concealed manner, allegedly attempting to manufacture instability through coordinated actions in various parts of the country.

He also reiterated the slogan “Bangladesh first”, stating that national interest must take precedence over all other considerations. Emphasising his party’s position, he said the BNP believes in friendship rather than subordination to any external influence, and argued that the strength of the country lies in its ordinary citizens.

BNP is a workers’ party, says minister

Addressing party activists, Mizanur Rahman Minu said that the BNP should not be viewed as a party of ministers, members of parliament, or mayors, but rather as an organisation rooted in its grassroots workers.

He stressed that party activists form the backbone of the organisation and are its primary driving force. According to him, political strength ultimately depends on the dedication and commitment of the party’s field-level supporters.

Remarks on land and party office construction

Referring to land issues under the Ministry of Land, the minister stated that there are significant amounts of government-owned “khas” land under its jurisdiction. He claimed that it would have been possible to occupy such land for party use, but insisted that the BNP does not engage in such practices.

Instead, he said the party intends to purchase land legally in the name of its secretary general and construct a permanent office in accordance with lawful procedures.

Key participants at the event

The meeting was chaired by Abu Sayeed Chand, convener of the district BNP and Member of Parliament for Rajshahi-6. Several senior party leaders attended as special guests, including representatives from both national and district-level committees.

Attendance overview

Broader political context

The remarks come amid ongoing political rhetoric between rival parties in the lead-up to heightened national political activity. Such statements reflecting allegations of past governance practices and current security concerns have become increasingly common in political gatherings across the country.

Analysts note that discussions centred on political mobilisation, allegations of intimidation, and organisational restructuring continue to shape the broader political narrative.

Concluding remarks

The minister’s comments highlight persistent political divisions and contrasting interpretations of past and present governance. While the BNP leadership continues to emphasise organisational discipline and legal compliance, its senior figures are also increasingly vocal in their criticism of previous administrations, contributing to an already charged political atmosphere.