"The floods have opened up a new avenue of income for the BNP-Jamaat looters... Hoodlums of the ruling alliance are collecting toll from relief-carrying vehicles, businessmen and other people even at this critical period," she said.

Hasina, also leader of the opposition in parliament, made the allegations while addressing the newly-elected office bearers of Bhola District Lawyers' Association, who met her at the AL's Dhanmondi office.

She also called upon all sections of people to stand by the flood-affected and carry out relief operation for them.

Hasina criticised the prime minister for what she said is "making a mockery with people's miseries."

She said this referring to the prime minister's reported remarks at a recent meeting in a flood-hit area that flood also has some good aspects for agriculture and other sectors.

Referring to the killing of Ahsanullah Master MP, the AL president said it was part of a BNP blueprint to eliminate popular leaders and workers of her party as it (AL) cannot be defeated in elections.

"People rejected the vote thieves in 1996 … This time also they will reject the vote thieves and punish them," Hasina said. No-one can cling to power through repression and torture, she added.

The former prime minister blamed the coalition government for 'destroying' all democratic institutions and the judiciary, and making the administration partisan.

AL central leaders including Tofail Ahmed, Mohiuddin Khan Alamgir and Abdul Mannan were present on the occasion.

Newly- elected president and general secretary of Bhola District Lawyers' Association Jahangir Alam and Bashirullah also spoke at the meeting.