Tarique Rahman can return Home at Any Time He wants

There is no obstacle to BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman returning to Bangladesh, said Home Affairs Adviser Jahangir Alam Chowdhury on Thursday.

"He is a citizen of Bangladesh - he is free to return whenever he decides," Jahangir said in response to a question on whether Tarique's return would be easier following the upcoming meeting with the chief adviser.

Jahangir went on to urge journalists not to publish partial quotes. "Please report everything I say in full. Partial reports often lead to misrepresentation. Neighbouring countries sometimes circulate false reports based on such incomplete information," he said in a media briefing in front of Salna Highway Police Station in Gazipur.

Regarding the issue of push-ins by Indian authorities despite Bangladesh's objections, he said that the matter has already been addressed by the foreign affairs adviser, and formal letters have been issued. "If any Bangladeshi national is staying in their country, of course, we will take them back, but they must return through proper channels," he said.

When asked about the risk of Covid-19 transmission from those being pushed in, he said: "Tests are being conducted for everyone. Measures have been taken to strengthen awareness and health screening at airports and land ports."

About the public health issues, the adviser said greater awareness is needed regarding the use of polythene. "People must be made aware so that polythene is not used under any circumstances. Masks must be used properly, not just kept in pockets. We must stay alert even though we are not currently facing serious Covid-related issues."