Killings of freethinkers, death threats worry eminent citizens

Seventeen eminent citizens yesterday expressed grave concern over the recent killings of freethinkers and repeated death threats on likeminded people by a militant group claiming to be protecting their religion's sanctity.

The citizens, including freedom fighters, university teachers and right activities, castigated the government, termed not only surprising but also unacceptable the lack of prompt action to indentify and bring the perpetrators to book. At least three freethinkers, Avijit Roy, Oyasiqur Rahman Babu and Ananta Bijoy Das, were killed alleged by religious militants this year.

Banned Islamist militant outfit Ansarullah Bangla Team issued death threats three times in the last two months, the last time on 25 eminent personalities including the Dhaka University vice-chancellor.

In a statement, the eminent personalities said the threats were hindering the country's peace, progress and stability, making it a safe haven for militants.

They also demanded banning of religion-based politics. The signatories include Prof Emeritus Anisuzzaman, Sultana Kamal, Prof AAMS Arefin Siddque, Syed Shamsul Haque, KM Shafiullah, Abed Khan, Prof Ajoy Roy and Prof MM Akash.