Bangladesh Minister Claims ‘Helmet Group’ Now Operating Covertly

Land Minister Mizanur Rahman Minu has alleged that the so-called “helmet group”, which he claimed was previously used during the Awami League era to suppress Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) activists, has now re-emerged in a transformed and covert form, operating as what he described as a hidden force involved in creating unrest and destabilising the country through orchestrated mob activity.

He made the remarks on Friday afternoon while speaking as the chief guest at a discussion meeting organised by the district unit of the BNP in Rajshahi. The programme was held at a local community centre in observance of Independence and National Day.

Allegations of covert political activity

In his address, the minister alleged that individuals previously associated with politically motivated violence had not disappeared but were instead operating under new identities and methods.

According to him, these elements are now functioning in a more concealed manner, allegedly attempting to engineer instability across different parts of the country through coordinated actions designed to disrupt public order.

Reiterating a political slogan, he emphasised “Bangladesh first”, arguing that national interest must take precedence over all other considerations. He also stated that the BNP’s political philosophy is based on friendship and mutual respect rather than dependency on external forces, adding that the strength of the nation ultimately lies in its people.

BNP described as a grassroots organisation

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

He stressed that field-level activists form the backbone of the party and play the most crucial role in sustaining its organisational strength. According to him, political success depends on the commitment, sacrifice and discipline of workers at the local level rather than leadership positions alone.

Comments on land policy and party office plans

Referring to matters under the Ministry of Land, the minister stated that large areas of government-owned “khas” land remain under state control. He suggested that such land could have been occupied for political purposes, but insisted that the BNP does not engage in unlawful occupation or misuse of public property.

Instead, he said the party intends to purchase land through legal channels in the name of its secretary general and construct a permanent central office in full compliance with regulations and lawful procedures.

Key participants at the programme

The meeting was chaired by Abu Sayeed Chand, convener of the district BNP and Member of Parliament for Rajshahi-6. Senior leaders from both national and district levels attended the event as special guests.

Event overview

Wider political backdrop

The remarks come amid continuing political exchanges between rival parties as national political activity intensifies. Allegations concerning past governance practices, political intimidation, and evolving security concerns have increasingly featured in public meetings and party programmes across the country.

Observers note that such rhetoric reflects ongoing polarisation in the political landscape, where competing narratives over law and order, democratic practices, and institutional conduct remain central to political discourse.

Closing context

The minister’s comments underscore the persistent divisions within the country’s political environment, with differing interpretations of past and present governance continuing to shape public debate. While the BNP leadership maintains its emphasis on organisational discipline and lawful political conduct, senior figures within the party remain vocal in their criticism of previous administrations, contributing to a highly charged and competitive political atmosphere.