International community expresses concern over Bangladesh political crisis

There is no sign of any change in the political deadlock between the two warring political parties though back channels are reportedly working to get the BNP to participate in the January elections. However a strike called by BNP and its Islamist allies has paralyzed normal life. Rail lines were damaged at many places and scores of vehicles were torched by protesters to oppose the announcement of parliamentary elections in the country. The protests began after the election commission announced that polls will be held on January 5. There are reports that the vote may be postponed to ensure the participation of the opposition parties. Prevailing unrest and unabated political violence in Bangladesh is a cause of concern to the international community. The European parliament in Brussels recently passed a resolution urging calm in the run-up to elections in Bangladesh.