Clashes in Delhi: 12 eminent citizens concerned

Twelve eminent citizens of Bangladesh yesterday expressed grave concern over the ongoing spate of clashes in the Indian capital New Delhi between people for and against the new citizenship law in the country.

Different social and political forces have been protesting the recently passed Citizenship (Amendment) Act in Delhi and elsewhere across India through demonstrations, statements, and rallies. In the last few days the situation has deteriorated alarmingly, with violent attacks against the CAA protesters, they said.

Mentioning the loss of lives and arson and violence that have so far ensued, they said if the ongoing situation could not be controlled, it might create instability in the region.

Terming India as a friendly neighbour and proven ally for being the biggest help during Bangladesh's Liberation War, they said the ongoing violence in India might be detrimental to the peace, democracy, development and communal harmony in this region.

"We call upon the Indian government and citizens to take prompt measures to protect the heritage of communal harmony and democratic ideologies in India.

"We also call upon the people in Bangladesh who believe in the spirit of our independence to uphold the country's communal harmony.

"We believe that by raising awareness among people in favour of communal harmony, we will prevail against all violence and fanaticism," the eminent personalities added.

The signatories of the joint statement are: Dr Anisuzzaman, Abdul Gaffar Chowdhury, Hasan Azizul Haque, Anupam Sen, Hasan Imam, Sarwar Ali, Ramendu Majumder, Mofidul Haque, Tariq Ali, Mamunur Rashid, Nasiruddin Yousuff and Golam Kuddus.