Citizen Initiative expresses deep concern and outrage over three recent incidents: the killing of Saifullah Bari, former Union President of Bangladesh Islami Chhatra Shibir, in Saghata, Gaibandha; the brutal attack on the father of young thinker and activist Iftekhar Jamil in Phulbaria, Mymensingh; and the assault on a journalist in Dhanmondi, Dhaka, today.
In the Mymensingh incident, it has been alleged that a group of individuals attacked Iftekhar Jamil’s father over a longstanding land dispute as well as some earlier social and religious issues. The attack resulted in a broken bone in his leg. The family has further alleged that the accused have political influence and are associated with the local activities of the opposition party Jamaat, and that even after the attack, members of the victim’s family have continued to face intimidation and threats of further violence. There are also allegations that the family remains insecure because of the inaction and indifference of some influential individuals at the local level.
Similarly, media reports indicate that Saifullah Bari, former Union President of Bangladesh Islami Chhatra Shibir in Saghata, Gaibandha, was killed and another Shibir activist was seriously injured following a dispute over the management committee of a local school. Various parties have alleged the involvement of local leaders and activists of the BNP and Jubo Dal in the attack.
In addition, we are deeply disturbed by the reported assault today in Dhanmondi on journalist Mahfuzur Rahman Shishir, a multimedia reporter for Dainik Sokal, allegedly by members and activists of Jamaat. Journalists are the mirror and voice of society and democracy. Although Jamaat has apologized for the incident, we firmly believe that an attack on a journalist for expressing views or gathering news can in no way be tolerated in a democratic Bangladesh following the July Uprising.
Citizen Initiative believes that political affiliation can never serve as a shield for criminal acts. At the same time, it would not be fair to hold an entire political organization collectively responsible for an individual incident. However, when allegations of violence or murder are brought against individuals affiliated with an organization, that organization also has a moral responsibility to take such allegations seriously, stand beside the victims, and ensure that those responsible receive no form of political protection or patronage.
We urge the relevant authorities to immediately ensure the safety and security of the injured individuals and their families. At the same time, the attacks on Iftekhar Jamil’s father in Mymensingh and the killing of Saifullah Bari in Gaibandha must be investigated promptly, independently, and effectively. All those responsible must be brought to justice regardless of their political affiliation or influence. Likewise, the attack on journalist Mahfuzur Rahman Shishir must be investigated promptly, and justice and appropriate compensation must be ensured.
Citizen Initiative calls upon all political, social, and religious organizations not to protect criminals behind the shield of political identity. There can be no compromise when it comes to justice, human dignity, and the safety and security of citizens.
Submitted by
Public Relations
Citizen Initiative