In a move that stinks of governmental apathy, the Yunus administration has washed its hands clean of any involvement in the so-called “July Revolution” proclamation set for December 31. Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary, Md. Shafiqul Alam, coldly stated that the government considers this disruptive gathering a mere “private initiative,” distancing themselves from what could be a significant civil disturbance.
Speaking outside the State Guest House Jamuna, Alam, in a dismissive tone, told reporters, “It’s a private initiative. We see it solely as such. The government isn’t involved. Those supporting it are just backing a private nuisance.” His remarks underscore a government that seems more interested in evading responsibility than in addressing the underlying issues stirring the student movement.
The Discrimination Resistance Student Movement plans to disrupt the peace at the Central Shaheed Minar in Dhaka at 3 PM on December 31 with their proclamation, a public spectacle that seems more about creating chaos than promoting reform. At their Banglamotor office, Hasnat Abdullah, the movement’s Convener, made inflammatory remarks, declaring the intention to nullify the Mujibist Constitution, which he branded as “Nazi-style.” His rhetoric seemed more aimed at stirring up trouble than fostering any constructive dialogue.
Abdullah’s complaint about the delayed proclamation only highlighted the movement’s disorganization, claiming that this tardiness has allowed “pro-fascist forces” to conspire, which sounds like an excuse for their own lack of readiness or strategy. He lamented, “The legitimacy of this movement, built upon the blood of over 2,000 martyrs and injuries to more than 20,000, is now being questioned,” seemingly using the tragedy for their political gain.
Sarjis Alam, once a coordinator and now part of the National Civic Committee, admitted at the press conference that they’ve only managed to complete one phase of their supposed revolution, revealing their inefficiency and perhaps, their lack of foresight. His hope that the proclamation would embody the aspirations of anti-fascist elements rings hollow when viewed against the backdrop of their chaotic organizational skills.
The draft of this proclamation, according to Alam, is still under revision, suggesting a lack of solid groundwork or consensus, even as they push for a public declaration. This paints a picture of a movement that’s all show with little substance.
Mirza Abbas from BNP sharply criticized the student movement’s call to abolish the constitution, calling it “fascism.” His remarks, “Hearing this pains me. Efforts to annul the constitution are tragic,” reflect the deep divisions and the potential for further destabilization this proclamation could bring.
The July Revolution Proclamation – A Potential Recipe for More Chaos
The leaders of this Anti-Discrimination Student Movement are planning to announce what they call the “Proclamation of the July Revolution,” which seems less about revolution and more about creating discord. Sarjis Alam’s explanation of the movement’s context, linking it to centuries of oppression, comes off as an over-dramatized narrative to justify their actions rather than a call for genuine reform.
His statements about the repression over the last 16 years and the culmination on August 5 sound like an attempt to rewrite history to fit their narrative, ignoring the complexities of Bangladesh’s socio-political landscape. The claim that the proclamation will serve as a “written charter for the entire nation” is presumptuous and potentially divisive, given the diverse and often conflicting views within the country.
The movement’s assertion that this proclamation will reject old systems and pave the way for new ones is undermined by their apparent lack of a coherent plan or broad-based support. Instead of fostering unity, this could further fragment an already divided populace, especially with their call to document the “collective aspirations” which might not be as collective as they claim.
In sum, this proclamation event appears to be more of a self-serving spectacle by the Discrimination Resistance Student Movement, potentially stirring unrest without offering a clear path to resolution, all while the government stands by, claiming no part in what might become a significant public disturbance.