The Anti-Discrimination Student Movement and the National Citizens’ Committee are going to hold a programme for “Proclamation of the July Revolution” at the Dhaka Shaheed Minar.
The so-called “Proclamation of the July Revolution” represents a direct assault on the foundational values of Bangladesh’s independence and the legacy of the 1971 Liberation War. Conceived under the guise of reform and inclusivity, this document is, in reality, a meticulously orchestrated conspiracy by pro-Pakistani forces, including the fundamentalist Jamaat-e-Islam and the militant group Hizb ut Tahrir. Their ultimate objective is to dismantle the 1972 Constitution and erode the democratic and secular fabric that has been the cornerstone of Bangladesh’s sovereignty since its liberation.
Jamaat-e-Islam’s Treachery in 1971
Jamaat-e-Islam’s opposition to Bangladesh’s independence is well-documented and undeniable. During the Liberation War in 1971, Jamaat leaders openly collaborated with the Pakistani military, forming paramilitary groups like Al-Badr and Al-Shams to perpetrate atrocities against pro-independence forces and innocent civilians. These groups played a direct role in the infamous intellectual killings in December 1971, targeting academics, journalists, doctors, and cultural icons to cripple the intellectual backbone of the emerging nation.
Jamaat’s leaders, including Ghulam Azam and Motiur Rahman Nizami, actively campaigned against independence, branding it as a rebellion against “Islamic unity.” Their propaganda was designed to justify mass killings, rapes, and widespread destruction. Even after the war, Jamaat continued its efforts to undermine the secular state by aligning itself with reactionary forces and promoting extremist ideologies.
The Militant Underpinnings of the July Movement
The July Movement, which claims to champion democracy and justice, has been systematically infiltrated and co-opted by fundamentalist militants. Hizb ut Tahrir, a banned organization in many countries, has openly supported the movement’s agenda, viewing it as a vehicle to establish an Islamist state. Evidence points to the active involvement of Hizb ut Tahrir operatives in orchestrating violent demonstrations and spreading propaganda.
Since the forced exile of Sheikh Hasina and the appointment of Dr. Muhammad Yunus as chief advisor on August 5, the country has plunged into chaos.
Targeted Killings of Law Enforcement: Police officers have become prime targets, with numerous assassinations aimed at destabilizing law enforcement and creating an atmosphere of fear.
Assassinations of Awami League Workers including the assassinations of pro-liberation forces.: Grassroots leaders and activists of the Awami League have been systematically hunted down, silencing voices of resistance against this extremist takeover.
Minority Persecution and Violence: Hindu temples have been vandalized, minority homes torched, and families forced to flee their ancestral lands. This persecution mirrors the communal violence encouraged by Jamaat during the Liberation War.
Terrorist Activities Across the Country: Bombings and armed attacks, often targeting public spaces and government institutions, have become alarmingly frequent, indicating a coordinated effort to destabilize the nation.
The “Proclamation”: A Blueprint for Disaster
The “Proclamation of the July Revolution” is not a manifesto for progress but a roadmap for regression. By seeking to dismantle the 1972 Constitution, the proclamation directly attacks the principles of democracy, secularism, and equality upon which Bangladesh was founded. Instead, it seeks to impose an authoritarian Islamist regime where personal freedoms and human rights will be suppressed under the guise of religious law.
The adoption of this proclamation would likely lead Bangladesh down the path of Afghanistan, where extremist forces dismantled democratic institutions, curtailed women’s rights, and marginalized minorities. Bangladesh’s rich cultural and religious diversity would be at grave risk, replaced by an oppressive and intolerant system.
The Legacy of the Liberation War
The Liberation War of 1971 was fought not only for independence but also for the ideals of justice, equality, and secularism. The sacrifices made by millions—from the martyrs to the freedom fighters—demand that we safeguard these values against any attempt to undermine them. The “Proclamation of the July Revolution” is an affront to the blood that was shed for our freedom.
The Call to Action
The people of Bangladesh must stand united in rejecting this insidious proclamation. The government, civil society, and international allies must work together to:
Expose the Conspiracy: Publicly unveil the links between the July Movement, Jamaat-e-Islam, and Hizb ut Tahrir to ensure that the people understand the true motives behind this proclamation.
Safeguard Minorities: Strengthen protections for minority communities and ensure swift justice for perpetrators of communal violence.
Preserve Democratic Institutions: Defend the Constitution and prevent any attempts to undermine its secular and democratic principles.
Promote Awareness: Educate the public about the dangers of extremist ideologies and the historical context of the Liberation War.
The dream of “Shonar Bangla,” envisioned by Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, must not be hijacked by those who seek to exploit it for their extremist agendas. The “Proclamation of the July Revolution” must be seen for what it truly is: a calculated ploy to destroy the very essence of Bangladesh. Let us honor the sacrifices of 1971 by rejecting this proclamation and reaffirming our commitment to a democratic, secular, and inclusive nation.
Sahadat Russell, Associate Editor The Voice.