Dhaka, Dec. 28 -- BNP on Saturday demanded the immediate and unconditional release of teacher AKM Shahidul Islam, who was arrested over allegations of making derogatory remarks about BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman.

The party made the demand in a statement, signed by its Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi.

"BNP believes that in a democratic country, every person has the freedom to express their views. That is why BNP has long been fighting for democracy and for people's freedom of speech and personal liberty," the statement reads.

It says BNP also believes that freedom of expression is a fundamental human and civic right, which allows individuals to express their thoughts, opinions and beliefs without fear.

"So, the B...