Khaleda trapped between life and death: Jamiruddin Sircar

BNP standing committee member Jamiruddin Sircar on Saturday said BNP chairperson Khaleda Zia's life is at risk in the unhealthy environment of jail.

"Khaleda Zia is now trapped between life and death. Her conviction in any case has not been disposed. Under such circumstances, confining her in jail is tantamount to violating the constitution and human rights," he told a press conference.

BNP organised the press conference at the party's Naya Paltan central office.

Jamiruddin Sircar alleged that Khaleda is being pushed towards deadly consequences through torture, both physical and mental. She is at high risk of suffering from pneumonia, he added.

The former speaker said Khaleda Zia is suffering from Vitamin D and calcium deficiency due to the unhealthy environment in the jail.

He said she is suffering from pain in her right shoulder and hand.

Jamiruddin Sircar said it is urgent to provide her with better treatment at a specialised hospital. She is presently under treatment at the Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU).

He also demanded immediate and unconditional release of Khaleda Zia.

The justice system has been diminished as the country is in the clutches of authoritarian rule, he said, adding the makeshift court has been set up in the jail with dubious motives.

The BNP leader alleged, "The prime minister said in London that Khaleda Zia would not be freed ever. She has implemented her words after returning to the country. Meanwhile, an order has been issued to set up court in Keraniganj jail."

Jamiruddin Sircar said a politically motivated case has been filed against Khaleda Zia. Proper procedures have not been followed in filing the case and convicting Khaleda Zia, he said.

When asked about Khaleda Zia's release on parole, BNP standing committee member Mirza Abbas said they will not seek Khaleda's release on parole.

Answering another question, BNP standing committee member Moudud Ahmed said a portion of the government is conspiring against Khaleda Zia and she is being shifted to Keraniganj jail.

On 8 February, the Dhaka Special Court-5 convicted former prime minister Khaleda Zia and sentenced her to five years' imprisonment in the Zia Orphanage Trust graft case. It was filed by Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) in 2008.