BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman urged all "pro-democracy" voices to remain calm and united, warning that vested quarters were attempting to exploit a sad moment for the country to incite violence.
"At this time of national mourning, I appeal to all pro-democracy comrades to remain calm and united," he wrote in a post on his verified Facebook page.
He added that the need of the hour is to "build a social order based on tolerance and self-restraint in order to stop divisive clashes or mob violence".
"There are worrying reports of some members of banned student political organisations creating tension between the public and the police and inciting violence. I request all these groups to refrain from trying to exploit such a sad moment in Bangladesh's history for their own interests."
He urged everyone to instead focus on uniting as a nation and showing compassion.
"Let our energies be spent - finding our missing loved ones, accurately accounting for the dead, ensuring the best possible treatment for the injured, and allowing the authorities to conduct a fair investigation to determine the root cause of the plane crash."
"Our heartfelt sympathies go out to the innocent victims and their bereaved families. Bangladesh must remain united and face every crisis with solidarity."
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