Uphold spirit of Liberation War instead of just talking about it
Civil society representatives at a discussion yesterday called upon all to unite and forge a social movement to prevent terrorism and religious extremism in the country.
They also urged the government to uphold the “true spirit” of Liberation War for a peaceful and progressive Bangladesh, instead of “just talking about it [the spirit]”.
Sammilito Samajik Andolon (SSA) and Sampradayikota-Jongibad Birodhi Mancha, two civic platforms, jointly organised the discussion on “terrorism and responsibilities of the civil society” at Jatiya Press Club in the capital.
Speaking at the programme, Oikya NAP President Pankaj Bhattacharya said terrorism is born in societies which deviate from morality and where discrimination is rampant.
“…Our country is moving that way,” he said.
“We cannot expect something good from those who talk about the spirit of Liberation War but act otherwise,” Pankaj said.
The senior politician also said the country has fallen in the grasp of a group who has been exploiting it for a long time.
However, there is still a chance to turn the situation around and ensure a non-communal Bangladesh. Upholding the spirit of the Liberation War is a must in this regard, he added.
Liberation War Museum Trustee Sarwar Ali said religious extremism emerged in Bangladesh as well as in other parts of the world a long time ago.
“Due to the rise of fundamentalism, youths are gradually becoming apathetic towards politics,” he said.
SSA President Ziauddin Tariq Ali said the spirit of Liberation War has been trampled.
To restore it, people have to unite and forge a movement, he stressed.
Bangladesh Nari Progati Sangha Executive Director Rokeya Kabir and the Mancha Member Secretary Nur Mohammad Talukder, among others, spoke at the discussion.
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