BNP Seeks Firearms Licenses Following Approval for Bulletproof Vehicles

After receiving permission to purchase bulletproof cars, the BNP has now applied to the Home Ministry for firearm licenses. According to ministry sources, the party has requested authorization for one shotgun and two pistols. The applications are currently under review.

At present, the Awami League’s political activities remain suspended. Security agencies fear that the party might attempt to create unrest or obstruct the upcoming election process. In this tense atmosphere, members of the Zia family could become targets of political revenge by Awami League supporters and affiliated groups.

Khaleda Zia’s residence, “Firoza,” has reportedly been readied for her stay, with heightened security measures in place and party leaders visiting frequently.

BNP’s acting chairman Tarique Rahman, who has lived in self-exile in London since September 2008, recently told BBC Bangla that he plans to return to Bangladesh soon to take part in the national election.

Party insiders have long cited security concerns as a key reason behind his delayed return. The issue of personal safety gained prominence after the April 20, 2015, attack on Khaleda Zia’s motorcade during a campaign in support of Dhaka North City Corporation mayoral candidate Tabith Awal. Several vehicles were vandalized that day by Awami League activists, and Khaleda Zia’s car—unarmored at the time—was among those attacked.

A report from the Special Branch (SB) of police recently highlighted the necessity of bulletproof vehicles for the BNP leadership. It stated that both Khaleda Zia and Tarique Rahman are expected to actively participate in nationwide election campaigns and rallies, during which they may face threats from rival political groups or hired attackers.

The SB assessment concluded that, given the volatile political environment, internal conflicts, and the hostility of opposing parties, the Zia family faces “multi-layered security risks.” To mitigate these threats, the agency expressed no objection to the purchase of a bulletproof vehicle for their continuous use.