Awami League was pinning hope on India’s support to Bangladesh in resolving the Rohingya crisis, said Obaidul Quader, the ruling party’s general secretary, yesterday. “The Indian government along with the whole world has expressed concern over the ongoing humanitarian crisis. India should stand beside Bangladesh to resolve the problem,” said Quader, who is also the road transport and bridges minster.

“India had supported Bangladesh during the War of Independence in 1971, and it would hopefully stand beside us during the present crisis as well,” he added.

The minister made the remarks while monitoring the operation of a mobile court set up by the Bangladesh Road Transport Authority at Manik Miah Avenue in the city.

He said a huge number of Rohingyas were entering Bangladesh. “But we can't allow them stay long in our country,” he added.

The ruling party leader also accused the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) of indulging in dirty politics over the Rohingya issue.

“While the world community, including the UN, is praising the Sheikh Hasina government’s role in handling the crisis, the BNP is criticising it. This is very unfortunate,” he said.

“People from across the country are anxious over the issue, but the BNP is trying to achieve cheap political gains.”

Quader sought cooperation from all to help the government to overcome the Rohingya crisis.