Photo : BSS

RANGPUR, Jan 30, 2026 (BSS) - Abdul Quader Mandal of Gaibandha district came to Rangpur Collectorate Eidgah Maidan today carrying 20.5 kg of paddy sheaves wrapped around his body to see BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman in person and listen to his speech.

Quader, an activist of Naldanga Union Krishak Dal in Sadullapur upazila, wore the paddy sheaves along with a cap and moved around the rally venue, expressing his loyalty and support for former President Ziaur Rahman, former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia, and Tarique Rahman.

Speaking to journalists, Abdul Quader Mandal said he traveled from Naldanga in Sadullapur upazila early this morning.

"I entered the Collectorate Eidgah ground at dawn to see Tarique Rahman directly from the stage and hear him speak. I have had the opportunity to see former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia several times before," he said.

He also mentioned that he has participated in several BNP programmes in Dhaka at different times, and he was especially excited to witness Tarique Rahman's rally in Rangpur.

"I learned that Tarique Rahman is coming to Rangpur after two decades to address an election rally at the historic Collectorate Eidgah Maidan at 4:30 pm today, so I came," he added.

Several other supporters were also seen at the venue, some carrying paddy sheaves in their hands or wearing them on caps, showing their enthusiasm and love for the party in unique ways.

BNP leaders and activists arrived early, many carrying party flags, wearing caps with party symbols, or displaying paddy sheaves, creating a visually striking scene that drew attention from the crowd.

Meanwhile, Rangpur leaders and activists expressed excitement ahead of the public meeting.

According to Rangpur Metropolitan Police, Tarique Rahman crossed Dhaperhat point on the Bogura-Rangpur highway in Sadullapur upazila of Gaibandha at 4:58 pm en route to pay tribute at the grave of martyr Abu Sayeed in Babanpur village of Pirganj upazila, Rangpur.

Due to his late arrival, Tarique Rahman attended the divisional-level election rally at Rangpur Collectorate Eidgah Maidan later in the evening.

BNP has completed all preparations to hold the largest election rally in Rangpur city. Leaders and activists expressed hope that the party will form the next government and that Tarique Rahman will bring Rangpur into the mainstream of development, free from discrimination.

Rangpur BNP leaders plan to present demands to Tarique Rahman regarding the implementation of the Teesta Master Plan, industrialization for employment creation, and improvements in education, health, and overall regional development.

Law enforcement agencies maintained heightened security to prevent any untoward incidents during the rally. The Rangpur Metropolitan Police deployed officers in uniform and plain clothes across the rally site, city entrances, and key roads, with additional surveillance across the city.

After the rally, Tarique Rahman will return to Bogura at night and continue his public engagements in Sirajganj and Tangail districts the following day.