Fearful climate returning to Bangladesh, warns opposition leader

Nahid Islam, convener of the National Citizen Party (NCP) and Chief Whip of the opposition in the Jatiya Sangsad, expressed concern that a climate of fear is returning to Bangladesh, citing recent attacks on NCP members. Speaking at a discussion event in Dhaka on Saturday, Islam stated that the government is reverting to old tactics of suppressing dissenting voices. He emphasized that national unity is essential to overcome the country's current political and economic crises, but this unity must be based on the proper implementation of the July Charter, ensuring justice for perpetrators, and restoring good governance and law and order. The NCP is prepared to offer full cooperation if the government commits to these issues, and Islam urged all relevant parties to act responsibly to ensure the success of the July popular uprising and resolve the nation's current challenges. He also highlighted the non-communal nature of the July uprising from its inception, noting that the sacrifices of people from all communities led to its success. Therefore, he argued, equal benefits should be ensured for all citizens, regardless of political affiliation, rather than favoring specific parties or groups. Islam called for thorough investigations and justice for the ongoing incidents of torture and violence against minorities. Father Albert Thomas Rosario, director of St. Mary's Cathedral and Archbishop's House, lamented that the spirit of the July uprising has not yet been fully realized, expressing doubt about the BNP's commitment to upholding it. He urged the government to implement the July Charter and fulfill its promises swiftly, stating it is the demand of 170 million people. Bhikkhu Sunandapriya Mahather, general secretary of the Bangladesh Buddhist Federation, noted the historical participation of Buddhists in democratic movements, including the July uprising, but echoed concerns that its core ideals remain unfulfilled, with Buddhists and their places of worship facing attacks without significant media coverage. Fahim Mashrur, founder of BDJobs, stated that efforts are ongoing to portray the July movement as a conspiracy, but the sacrifices of non-Muslims who died during the uprising attest to its non-communal character, urging continued efforts to present the narrative accurately. Sarwar Tushar, an NCP joint convener, criticized the past Awami League government for the most significant attacks and land seizures against minority communities, noting that justice has not been served and the envisioned new Bangladesh has not yet been achieved. Pritam Das, joint convener of the NCP, presided over the event, which was moderated by Praloy Kumar Pal and Joy Biswas.