Published: 12:21 AM, 20 October 2026
Ishraque Hossain resigns as state minister
State Minister for Liberation War Affairs Ishraque Hossain on Monday announced his resignation from the Cabinet following the controversy sparked by his participation in an anti-narcotics operation while carrying a firearm.
He came up with the announcement at a press conference at the Jatiya Press Club in the afternoon.
Ishraque Hossain said, "I have voluntarily sought release from my responsibilities as State Minister for Liberation War Affairs to avoid putting the Prime Minister or the BNP in an uncomfortable position."
Ishraque, the BNP MP of Dhaka-6 constituency, said he wanted to devote his time to making his constituency drug-free and addressing other problems faced by its residents.
The controversy erupted after a video circulated on social media showing him carrying a firearm during an anti-drug drive in Ghuntighar area alongside the railway line in Gandaria on Saturday.
Explaining his participation in the anti-drug drive, Ishraque said residents had repeatedly complained about drug trafficking in the area which he described as a major drug distribution hub. "If I made any mistake or hurt anyone through this operation, I would like to apologise for that first," he said.
Defending his actions, Ishraque said the operation was conducted in coordination with police and in line with decisions of the Dhaka-6 law and order committee.
"I firmly believe that I did nothing wrong that day. I held the firearm only for self-defence," he said, expressing regret if his conduct or the operation had hurt anyone.
He said the campaign against drugs would continue with greater enthusiasm as a BNP activist rather than as a minister, urging people to provide information about drug hotspots.
"I have started this fight against drugs, and it will continue," he said.
Ishraque won the 2026 general election as the candidate for Dhaka-6, bagging78,850 votes.
On February, 17, 2026, he took charge as State Minister for Ministry of Liberation War Affairs.
