- The dramatic events witnessed in Bangladesh resulting in the hurried exit of Sheikh Hasina must have raised concern around the universe, especially those who wish to uphold the democratic credentials of a nation born out of disconcerting conflict in the 1970s. The whole world is aware of the history and the birth of Bangladesh which saw active participation of the Indian military in freeing the region from the grip of Pakistani establishment back then. Since then, Bangladesh has made steady progress without losing sight of the region’s geostrategic situation despite the pulls and pressures exerted by the fundamentalists. Not too long ago, the nation was considered one of the most promising vis-à-vis growth prospects through some smart economic initiatives.
PC: The Economic Times
- The student-led agitation resulted in the ouster of the Hasina government and the subsequent interim government taking charge. As things start unfolding in our neighbour, the visible return of extremists will undermine the protest and prove apprehensions about Hasina’s ouster unceremoniously. Notably, the political transition in Bangladesh has taken a worrisome extremist turn in recent days. First, there were reports of attacks on minorities and their properties. This led to the head of the interim government Muhammad Yunus visiting the iconic Dhakeshwari temple and assuring that Hindus would be given equal protection. However, some actions of the interim govt have again raised questions over the safety of minorities, secular individuals, and journalists.
- There have been growing concerns that Dhaka’s new dispensation and its supporters are targeting journalists seen to be close to the erstwhile Hasina govt. A journalist with a pro-Hasina media organization was found dead under mysterious circumstances. Two others were arrested while trying to leave the country. These actions mirror the policies of the Hasina govt towards the so-called unfriendly Press. Reporters Without Borders has raised concerns over 25 journalists being recently charged with crimes against humanity, hinting at a witch hunt. Plus, the interim govt has released extremists with links to terror groups, including an organization that has links with Al-Qaeda. Also, the ban on Jamaat-e-Islami Bangladesh has been reversed.
PC: Northeast News
- These are all elements that were against Bangladesh’s liberation struggle and subsequently eroded Bangladesh’s secular moorings. Their release now raises fears for Bangladeshi minorities and intellectuals. Remember, the last thing one needs is for Bangladesh to emerge as a hub of Islamist extremism. This is not only a problem for the country but also a serious concern for India. Of course, Hasina had indeed become an autocrat. But she kept extremism under check and did not allow anti-India forces free rein. A reversal now also undermines the fight for rights and justice that the new Dhaka dispensation is supposedly championing. Yunus failing to halt the radicals will only prove him a puppet. The interim government must act with intent for its own good.
