(BSS) - BNP standing committee member Salahuddin Ahmed today said people will identify and politically reject individuals or groups that attempt to obstruct the upcoming national election.

"The people will recognize those who are trying to delay or sabotage the election by creating unnecessary issues and will reject them politically," he said.

Salahuddin made the remarks while delivering a goodwill speech at the Dhakeshwari National Temple in Dhaka, on the occasion of Durga Puja.

He noted that an electoral atmosphere is already prevailing across the country and that parties and candidates participating in the election have begun their campaigns.

Stressing the symbolic significance of Durga Puja, he said, "This is not just a religious festival but a representation of the fight against evil and unjust forces. For the past 16 years, the people of Bangladesh have fought against fascism and the power of `Asur` (evil). Although fascism has been overthrown, the struggle against evil is not over."

Salahuddin also stressed the need for unity in politics, saying that BNP believes in inclusive politics that embraces all citizens regardless of religion, ethnicity, or region.

"We do not believe in using religion for political purposes. Religion is a personal matter, but the state belongs to all," he said.

Criticizing opponents, Salahuddin said, "A certain political group is trying to divide the nation along religious lines and create instability. They are engaged in conspiracies to obstruct a free and participatory election."

Addressing demands made by the Dhakeshwari Temple Committee, he assured the audience that BNP would include relevant and logical issues such as Devottor (religious endowment) property, Vested Property, and the formation of a Minority Commission and Foundation in its electoral manifesto.

He also called upon BNP leaders and activists to support the Durga Puja celebrations, saying, "BNP activists will stand by to ensure safety and protection of Durga Puja celebration."

Salahuddin warned of ongoing conspiracies to disrupt communal harmony but expressed confidence that these efforts would ultimately fail, as they have in the past.

Among those present at the event were BNP Assistant Religious Affairs Secretary Amalendu Dey Sabu, Bangladesh Puja Parishad President Basudev Dhar, Mohanagar Puja Parishad President Jayanta Kumar Dey, Founder Subrata Chowdhury, former student leader Mir Newaz Ali, and Hindu Buddhist Christian Welfare Front General Secretary Tarun Dey.