The interim committee of the Bangladesh Economic Association (BEA) has demanded the immediate arrest of those who attacked and vandalised the association's office.

Mohammed Helal Uddin, member secretary of the interim committee, made this demand at a press conference held today at the Economic Reporters' Forum office in Dhaka.

He claimed that the self-proclaimed and unauthorised ad-hoc committee carried out attacks on February 12 and February 17 in an attempt to disrupt the association's election—an incident unprecedented in BEA's history.

Helal Uddin stated that any member of the association can discuss their demands with the current interim committee and seek a logical resolution.

However, resorting to unprofessional means such as launching attacks or taking officials hostage to fulfil demands is unacceptable, he added.

Prof Abu Ahmed, chairman of the Investment Corporation of Bangladesh, emphasised that distinguished economists have always led the BEA throughout its history.

He noted that Prof Mahbub Ullah of Dhaka University—one of the most respected and widely recognised economists in the academic sphere today—has been requested to serve as the convener of the interim committee, and he has agreed to do so.

"Now, everyone should support Prof Mahbub Ullah in restoring the lost prestige of the association," he said.

Meanwhile, Prof Mahbub Ullah has urged the so-called ad-hoc committee to participate in the next election and take the opportunity to lead the BEA legally.

Earlier, following the political changeover after the July uprising, the previous executive committee, in accordance with the association's constitution, handed over responsibilities to a 29-member interim committee.