In a recent development, the National Citizens Party (NCP) Chief Organizer (Southern Region) Hasnat Abdullah has raised concerns about the Awami League’s attempt at a comeback in the country’s politics, warning that their discussion about a return before the court ruling could pose a threat to sovereignty. This statement was made by Abdullah in a post on his verified Facebook page on Wednesday, March 12th.
### The Political Landscape
Hasnat Abdullah, a former coordinator of the anti-discrimination student movement against the downfall of autocratic Sheikh Hasina, expressed his views on the ongoing election preparation by the Awami League. He mentioned the emergence of a new entity called ‘Refined Awami League,’ which is set to introduce a tablet soon. He emphasized that there are no ifs and buts in this plan, cautioning against any attempt of a comeback by the Awami League before the court’s decision. Abdullah firmly stated, “Therefore, do not attend the tablet of the ‘Refined’ Awami League. There should be no discussion before the party’s judicial certainty. Full stop.”
### Unrest and Violence
The unrest began last July with students initiating a movement for reforming the quota system in government jobs. Initially peaceful, the situation escalated when the Awami League government deployed its student organization, the Chhatra League, to suppress the students forcefully. Sheikh Hasina’s government labeled the protestors as ‘Razakar’s descendants,’ provoking outrage among the students. Universities across the country turned into battlegrounds, with the state machinery using full force to quell the demonstrations. The situation worsened with the deployment of armed cadres by the Awami League, resulting in multiple casualties and growing public anger. Unable to contain the intense public resentment, Sheikh Hasina fled to India.
### Human Rights Violations
According to a report by the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), between July and August, over a thousand people fell victim to fatal incidents. Most of them were shot with military-grade weapons and firearms by security forces. Thousands of students and civilians suffered severe injuries, with many losing their lives. The use of excessive force by law enforcement agencies led to an alarming number of casualties and injuries, leaving a significant portion of the population traumatized. Over 11,000 individuals were arrested by the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) and the police.
The events unfolding in the political arena of Bangladesh paint a grim picture of unrest, violence, and human rights violations. The power struggle between the ruling party and the opposition has resulted in a volatile environment, with citizens paying a heavy price for the political turmoil. The need for stability, justice, and respect for human rights is more crucial now than ever before. The future of Bangladesh hangs in the balance, awaiting a resolution to the ongoing crisis that has gripped the nation in fear and uncertainty.
