Dhaka, Feb 23 (UNB) - Main opposition BNP has applied to the authorities naming three places in the capital for holding Khaleda Zia’s grand rally on March 12.

The places named are Paltan Maidan, Manik Mia Avenue, and Nayapaltan in front of BNP central office, seeking permission to use any of them for holding the rally, the press was informed.

Addressing a press briefing at the party central office Thursday, BNP joint secretary general Ruhul Kabir Rizvi alleged that ministers and the ruling party leaders are making misleading statements over the March 12 grand rally apparently aiming to obstruct the programme.

He also alleged that the `Awami terrorists’ had carried out attacks on the BNP leaders and workers across the country while observing the `Amar Ekushey’ (February 21).

Rizvi said that in Choumohini of Noakhali, BNP leader Harun was beaten mercilessly in the first hour of Feb 21 while he was returning after placing wreath at the local Shaheed Minar.

Later, he succumbed to his injuries.

He strongly protested the attack and demanded immediate arrest of the attackers.

BNP leaders Abdus Salam, Habib-un-Nabi Khan Sohel, Abdul Latif Jony, Asadul Karim Shahin, Mir Sarafat Ali Sapu and Amirul Islam Alim were, among others, present at the press briefing.