DHAKA: In a U-turn, BNP secretary general Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir raised “serious concerns” on Tuesday about rising efforts to downplay significance of the 1971 Liberation War, while cautioning that such attempts not only undermine the sacrifices made by countless individuals during the war but also threaten the foundation of Bangladesh’s independence, reports Ahsan Tasnim.
“Some people, parties, and groups are trying to make it seem as if 1971 never happened… trying to erase it from memory. My friends, those who once collaborated in the massacre, are now speaking louder than ever,” Fakhrul said in Dhaka.
The statement, purportedly made with an eye on national elections expected be held during the year-end, seems to hint at change of stance of the party whose cadres have been active participants in anti-Mujib protests across country and abroad, including removing his portrait from Darbar Hall of the President’s office & destroying his residence at Dhanmondi 32.
Fakhrul said people involved in mass killings during war of independence are now speaking openly and attempting to distort history. Fakhrul stressed the importance of preserving the nation’s history, noting that many younger generations are unaware of significant historical events.
Still waiting for India to respond to Yunus-Modi meet proposal: Bangladesh
Bangladesh Tuesday said it was awaiting a response from New Delhi to its proposal for a meeting between Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus and PM Narendra Modi on the sidelines of BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok next week, reports Ahsan Tasnim. Foreign secretary Md Jashim Uddin said the strain in relations between the countries could be overcome if the bilateral meeting is held.