Sheikh Hasina has sounded warnings over the acts of arson and sabotage on transports amid the opposition BNP's series of general strikes and blockades.

Speaking at her Ganobhaban residence while exchanging Christmas greetings on with Christians on Sunday, the prime minister said, "Burning people alive is a great sin. No cleric will ever accept this. Jesus Christ sacrificed his life for humanity."

She further emphasised that humanity and the welfare of humankind is the cornerstone of every religion.

"We are running the state from that belief," she remarked.

As many as 285 vehicles have been torched across Bangladesh amid hartals or shutdowns enforced by the BNP ahead of the 12th parliamentary elections, according to the fire service.

The country also saw five significant arson acts on railways, claiming the lives of five. Seven train coaches were completely gutted, and eight more compartments and engines were also damaged.

Referring to the arson attack on the Mohanganj Express, Awami League chief said, "A mother was clinging on to her child to save her from the fire. Both of them were burnt to death. We do not wish to see such heinous acts of crime."

She expressed her resolve not to allow anyone to gain from killing people and foiling the election.

Hasina also condemned Israel's aggression in Gaza.

She said, "Children and women are being killed in the birthplace of Jesus Christ, who sacrificed his life for the noble cause of promoting humanity. It is unfortunate."

"I am repeatedly calling for a ceasefire at every opportunity I get in the international arena," she added.

The president of the ruling party also remarked that Bangladesh is a secular state. "The people of this region have been living in religious harmony for thousands of years."

On the occasion of Christmas, Hasina exchanged greetings with the Christian community in Bangladesh and abroad. Her sister, Sheikh Rehana, was also present.

The prime minister was greeted with a Christmas card from the Archbishop of Dhaka, Archdiocese Bejoy Nicephorus D'Cruze, and the President of Bangladesh Christian Association, Nirmal Rozario, at the event.