What Did the Awami League Say About Military Action Against Civilians in Gopalganj?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In a dramatic turn of events, the Awami League has fiercely criticized military actions in Gopalganj against civilians. Thousands protested against the oppressive regime of Muhammad Yunus, shedding light on the ongoing violence and repression in Bangladesh. Discover the implications of this unrest and the military's controversial role in these events.
Key Takeaways
- Thousands protested against state-sponsored repression in Gopalganj.
- The Awami League fiercely criticized the military's actions.
- Concerns over the erasure of Bangabandhu's legacy continue to grow.
- Approximately 1500 memorials have been vandalized since Yunus took power.
- Political violence has escalated against Awami League leaders.
Dhaka, July 16 (NationPress) In a significant protest on Wednesday, thousands gathered in Gopalganj district to denounce the “state-sponsored repression” initiated by the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus. The Awami League party criticized the military for instilling terror among the populace through a brutal crackdown.
"With complete impunity, members of the Bangladesh Army are witnessed torturing and dragging a civilian in Gopalganj, aiming to create a climate of fear across the nation. This unfortunate civilian was part of the vast crowd protesting against the oppression by the Yunus regime, which includes extrajudicial killings, arbitrary arrests, detentions, a rising crime wave, and the recent attempts to erase symbols associated with our founding father, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, from his birthplace Gopalganj," stated the Awami League.
"We vehemently condemn the ongoing support from the armed forces, who have remained inactive amidst the criminal activities perpetrated by Yunus-sponsored mobs backed by Islamists. Historic Dhanmondi 32, the site of the founding father's assassination, was demolished by these mobs, while people are attacked on the streets for refusing to comply with extortion demands. By participating in this savage crackdown, the Bangladesh Army has abandoned its neutrality," emphasized the Awami League.
In February, a significant group of protesters vandalized and set fire to the residence of Bangladesh's founder, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, during a live online address by his daughter, former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
The furious mob desecrated the memorial and residence located at Dhanmondi 32, demanding a ban on the Awami League party he established.
The Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) also renamed various roads, buildings, and structures previously dedicated to Bangabandhu Mujibur Rahman, his family, and Awami League leaders. Bangabandhu Avenue has now been changed to Shaheed Abrar Fahad Avenue, as per the DSCC's order.
Since the rise of the Yunus government in August 2024, following the fall of the Awami League-led government under former Prime Minister Hasina, approximately 1500 sculptures, murals, and memorials have been vandalized, torched, or uprooted across the nation.
Moreover, numerous Awami League leaders have faced brutal attacks and murders since Hasina's ousting, with many party members and supporters enduring severe assaults and mob violence in recent months.
Point of View
It is evident that the people of Bangladesh are grappling with significant turmoil. The Awami League's condemnation of military actions reflects broader concerns about the erosion of civil liberties and state-sponsored violence. Ensuring a fair and just response to these events is crucial for the nation's future.
NationPress
16/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggered the protests in Gopalganj?
The protests were sparked by widespread discontent against the 'state-sponsored repression' by the Muhammad Yunus-led interim government, alongside increasing violence and suppression of civil rights.
What role did the military play in the protests?
The Awami League accused the military of participating in brutal crackdowns against civilians, contributing to a climate of fear and oppression.
What actions have been taken against symbols of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman?
Numerous memorials and structures dedicated to Bangabandhu have been vandalized or renamed, reflecting a significant cultural and historical erasure.
What has been the international response to these events?
While international responses may vary, there is growing concern regarding human rights violations and the suppression of dissent in Bangladesh.
How has the Awami League reacted to the violence?
The Awami League has condemned the violence and accused the government and military of abandoning their duty to protect citizens.
