BNP’s standing committee member and former minister Barrister Rafiqul Islam Mia is now in a very critical condition, as he was put on a ventilator on Monday night.

BNP chairperson’s press wing member Shairul Kabir Khan confirmed this information to media on Tuesday morning.

He has been undergoing treatment under the supervision of a medical board in Dhanmondi’s Ibne Sina Hospital.

Rafiq, an 80-year-old barrister is suffering from lung problems, high blood pressure and diabetes, he said.

Rafiqul’s wife Professor Shahida Rafique, also BNP chairperson’s advisory council member, requested countrymen to pray for his quick recovery, he added.

Earlier, Rafiqul Islam was admitted to Dhanmondi’s Ibne Sina Hospital in Dhaka on September 8 as he felt unwell and taken to ICU later at night as his physical condition deteriorated.