In a sharp political exchange ahead of the upcoming parliamentary elections, BNP candidate for Dhaka-6, Engineer Ishrak Hossain, described Nasiruddin Patwari, the NCP candidate for Dhaka-8, as “mentally unwell” and stated that he requires medical treatment.
The comments came in response to Patwari’s speech on Sunday at Dhupkhola Ground in Old Dhaka, where he reportedly called for verdicts against extortionists and landlords. Ishrak Hossain condemned Patwari’s choice of words, describing them as “offensive” and demanded a public apology from the candidate.
Speaking to the media during a campaign tour in Sutrapur on Monday morning (26 January), Ishrak said: “Such statements indicate mental instability. He needs psychiatric attention. Furthermore, he should be taught how to maintain political decorum and appropriate language towards opponents.”
Ishrak emphasised the importance of fair electoral practices, stating: “We believe the ultimate power lies in the hands of the people. A free and impartial election will ensure that voters make their choice, and we have full confidence in the people’s verdict.”
He also commented on the broader political atmosphere, noting that, while the situation across Dhaka and the country remains generally calm, reckless and provocative remarks from certain individuals are causing unease among voters. Ishrak urged all political actors to maintain peace and respect the electorate.
Ishrak suggested that Patwari should publicly apologise for his remarks. “If he fails to do so, his party should take appropriate organisational action, including expulsion and withdrawal of candidacy,” he added.
Earlier on Monday, Ishrak Hossain participated in a meeting organised under the banner of the doctors, officers, and staff of Dhaka National Medical College and Hospital. He pledged to ensure accessible healthcare for all and reiterated his commitment to the reform and development of the medical sector.
The BNP candidate’s campaign team announced that Ishrak’s outreach programme would continue throughout the day, covering various neighbourhoods in Sutrapur.
For clarity, the key points of the dispute are summarised below:
| Candidate | Constituency | Allegation | Response / Demand | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nasiruddin Patwari | Dhaka-8, NCP | Offensive speech targeting extortionists and landlords | Public apology | Described by Ishrak as mentally unwell, requiring treatment |
| Ishrak Hossain | Dhaka-6, BNP | Criticism of opponent’s language | Calls for apology or party action | Advocates political decorum, voter confidence, and peace |
| General Observation | Dhaka & nationwide | Political tension from provocative remarks | Maintain calm | Situation largely normal but sensitive to inflammatory comments |
Ishrak Hossain’s statements underline the heightened political tension in the run-up to the elections, emphasising both accountability of candidates and the role of the electorate in upholding democratic processes.