Opinion
IRI Survey: What accounts for Sheikh Hasina’s sustained popularity?
The recent release of a report by the Washington-based International Republican Institute (IRI) – a non-profit organisation funded and supported by the United States federal government – has sparked considerable debates and discussions within Bangladesh’s political sphere. This dynamic discourse comes at a pivotal juncture as the nation steers towards the upcoming parliamentary election, with the opposition vocally advocating for the reinstatement of the caretaker government system. The findings of the report are likely to have significant implications for Bangladesh’s political landscape. With a focus on gauging public opinion, the survey paints a comprehensive picture of the preferences and attitudes of the Bangladeshi population.
One of the most striking revelations of the report is the widespread popularity of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The fact that an overwhelming 70 percent of respondents hold positive views about her leadership indicates a strong endorsement of her policies and governance. This reflects the public’s confidence in her ability to steer the nation forward and address its challenges effectively.
In addition to evaluating sentiments toward the Prime Minister, the report delves into perspectives on the electoral process. Notably, only 44 percent conveyed favorable inclination towards reinstating the caretaker government, implying that a majority of respondents do not outrightly endorse the opposition’s demands regarding the issue. This indirectly signals an increasing faith in the stability and transparency of the incumbent government’s strategies for holding elections.
Furthermore, the survey underscores the population’s enthusiasm for participating in the democratic process. An impressive 92 percent of respondents expressed their intent to exercise their voting rights, highlighting a keen awareness of the significance of civic engagement and the power of the ballot.
The combination of these findings points towards a nation that values both stable leadership and active democratic participation. As Bangladesh looks ahead to its upcoming general election, these insights can guide political parties and policymakers in aligning their strategies with the desires and expectations of the people.
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However, it’s also important to recognize that public sentiment can be fluid and subject to change, influenced by various factors including evolving circumstances and policy decisions. As such, while these survey results offer a snapshot of current attitudes, they also highlight the need for continued engagement and responsiveness from the government to maintain the high levels of support observed in the report.
Now, a crucial inquiry arises: What accounts for Sheikh Hasina’s sustained popularity? The considerable upswing in Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s popularity, as highlighted by the survey, can be linked to a sequence of diverse accomplishments that have markedly influenced Bangladesh across multiple domains.
One of the pivotal factors behind Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s soaring popularity is her government’s adept management of the COVID-19 crisis. As the pandemic brought about unprecedented challenges globally, her leadership stood out through decisive actions and transparent communication. Swift and effective measures were implemented to curb the spread of the virus, leading to a relatively controlled impact on public health compared to many nations. Moreover, the mass vaccination program, offered free of cost, has saved the people of Bangladesh from catastrophic health consequences. This success not only saved lives but also bolstered public confidence in her administration’s ability to navigate complex crises.
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The government’s commitment to improving the lives of its citizens is underscored by the expansion of the social safety net. By extending the coverage of welfare programs, Sheikh Hasina’s government has significantly reduced poverty levels in the country. These initiatives have provided essential support to vulnerable populations, ensuring access to healthcare, education, and basic necessities. Such measures have not only uplifted lives but have also garnered widespread public appreciation for their direct impact on the ground.
Furthermore, the vision of transforming Bangladesh’s infrastructure has been actualized through ambitious mega projects. The construction of the Padma Bridge, a tunnel under the Karnaphuli river, and the introduction of a metro rail in Dhaka are monumental initiatives that reflect the government’s commitment to modernization and improved connectivity. These projects not only promise a more efficient transportation network but also contribute to economic growth and job creation, resonating positively with the populace.
Another crucial query pertains to whether the IRI report will contribute to the Awami League drawing public support as the nation approaches the 12th parliamentary election scheduled for early 2024. The findings of the report could potentially provide the Awami League with a substantial advantage. As voters increasingly prioritize stability, effective governance, and concrete results, the report’s insights into Sheikh Hasina’s growing popularity could translate into higher voter confidence in the Awami League’s ability to steer the nation’s progress. However, it’s important to note that political dynamics can be complex and multifaceted, and electoral outcomes are influenced by a range of factors beyond just popularity figures.
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In conclusion, the IRI report underscores the remarkable surge in Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s popularity, while also reflecting the people’s confidence in the electoral process. With a substantial majority indicating their intent to participate in the democratic process, Bangladesh appears poised to move forward with a strong sense of civic responsibility and engagement. As the nation progresses, these findings could serve as a foundation for further discussions on governance, policy, and the future trajectory of Bangladesh’s democracy.
The writer is a Professor of Public Administration at the University of Rajshahi.
Breaking the Silence on child sexual abuse in Bangladesh
29 years ago, a group of people, deeply disturbed by the silence that pervaded over the violent issue of child sexual abuse decided to establish an organization on “Breaking the silence” . That was in 1996 and all these people had hoped for were some discussions and some activities that would trigger a reasonable level of awareness on the topic.
What BTS was not expecting was that their initiative would lead to a national level awareness on the scale that is historic. They had taken on the historic silence on the topic and in the process shaken the idea that sexual abuse was part of the “normal”. BTS had literally challenged the Silence. They had broken the silence.
Child sexual abuse and society
Children that are persons under 18 years of age and involved in sexual activities are not uncommon. It happens through three ways generally; A. Through early age marriage. B. Through coercive manipulation, non-consensually and or rape. C. Romantic or sexual relations.
This becomes a complex issue due to many overlapping matters. In case of Bangladesh, this is difficult due to high prevalence of child marriage. BTS is also working on this topic now but its main focus is on children who are sexually abused, who can do little about it as there is no social awareness and understanding that this is abuse. Socially and individually, the awareness of abuse is/was low.
There are other complexities including the economic compulsions behind CSA. Many poverty driven children are abused as part of the transaction cost for being paid or employed. The social values of Bangladeshi or for that matter Bangladeshi society are one of “do not disturb the status quo”.
The result is recognition of CSA as being present but at the same time ignoring it. This is more common than we think. To this is linked the prevalent notions of sexuality attached to which are linked other socio-economic factors. Given this scenario, it’s obvious that BTS Had a massive task ahead even as it contemplated bringing the issue to the public space.
The report
In 1994, BTS published their path breaking report , “ Non-Commercial Sexual abuse of Children in Bangladesh.” based on over 100 case studies covering both urban and rural areas, it was the first report of its kind in the country. For the first time, there was research based documented evidence that indicated the range and the scale of the problem.
The case studies also indicated two facts that were not noted before.
- That it was not rape that dominated the sexual abuse scene but manipulative sexual abuse. It was not violently done but coerced, forced, pushed or emotionally manipulated. (This as per Bangladesh law tantamount to rape anyway).
- That boy children were also sexually abused and many even if they knew about it didn’t consider it a problem. One reason was socially its girls who faced major stigma around social abuse particularly in case of marriages where sexually abused girls were seen as “tainted”. Hence people were silent about sexual abuse of girl children. And in the case of boy children, they didn’t even recognize that a problem existed.
There was reaction from various quarters. However, reaction from several quarters including a section of the media was hostile. It was read as an attack on the people of Bangladesh and its societal behaviour. But a large section upheld the report and gave extensive focus.
Soon the initial hostility gave away and there was a slow rise of acceptance as people and the authorities began to face the facts they already knew and began to discuss what could be done. The silence around sexual abuse had begun to crack loudly.
From the people to the Government
BTS is a social service organization run by active members, held together by their commitment to the cause. There are no nominated, professional or prestige driven people who are name lenders. This has produced a coalition of ordinary people who support BTS because they care.
The continuity of the leadership has been very important in sustaining the advances made. The Chairperson since birth has been Tasmima Hosssain, Editor of Ittefaq and Anannya and the General Secretary Roksana Sultana. Most active members have been with BTS since birth or soon after and plan to continue till the end.
In my own research on the topic and the increased social awareness of the same, civil society actors did take up a challenge at a time when it was not on the policy plate of the Government or even the UN. Although the UN is generally seen as a policy advocacy leader, it wasn’t so at that time. INGOs were better informed and willing and Swedish Save the Children (Radda Barnen) played a significant role.
BTS’s advocacy backed by information bore significant fruits. Its field level work at the community level and public mobilization were compelling evidence that the problem needed addressing. Once the GOB had endorsed action, the rest became easier.
Today, almost 30 years later, the work of this agency shows that ordinary people can make a difference even without many resources and take the problem from the shadows of denial and neglect to the mainstream or light if not enlightenment yet.
The silence over the sexual abuse of children has been broken. BTS kept its promise.
The Mournful Day
It was not dawn yet. Azan, the call for prayers from a faraway mosque was flowing through. All on a sudden sound of gunshots filled the air. Shots were being fired around a house on road 32 of Dhanmondi area in Dhaka. The house where the President of Bangladesh, Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman resides. It was a simple small-sized two-storey building on one bigha land. The Head of the State lives there just like any other middle-class citizen. He was like this all along; living an ordinary life. The house is also the silent witness of all sorts of movement and struggle for our independence. Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib declared the independence of Bangladesh on 26 March 1971 from the same house. Target of this early morning attack was this house. The serene sound of Azan was already lost under the crackling of heavy gunfire.
Generally, the security of the residence of the President lies with the Infantry Division of the Armed Forces. But just 10-12 days ago the responsibility was shifted to the officers and soldiers from the ‘Bengal Lancer’, which was not a usual case. My mother, Begum Fazilatunnesa Mujib noticed that soldiers donning black uniform were engaged in maintaining the security of the residence. She raised the question but didn’t receive any satisfactory response.
My father Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman had endless love for his countrymen. He used to have blind faith on almost everyone. He could never imagine that any Bengali would raise a gun to shoot or kill him. No Bengali would ever try to kill or harm him in any way – he used to live with this conviction. Though unfortunate but what value did he get for his such strong faith in people?
Gunshots were being fired from all around. Continuously firing from a machinegun, a military vehicle stopped in front of the house at Road 32. By that time, all present at the house woke up due to such earsplitting noise of gunshots. My brother Sheikh Kamal hurried down to the reception area in an attempt to know what was happening and who attacked our house. Personal Assistant to my father, Mr. Mohitul Islam was then trying to make calls to different places but in vain. He did not get any response from anyone.
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After staying there for few minutes, Kamal came out to the veranda. He saw Major Nur and Captain Huda approaching through the entrance gate. Kamal started talking to them – ‘Oh! You have arrived. Please look into the matter. Who attacked our house...?’ But before he could finish his words, the weapons at their murderous hands started spitting bullets at him. Kamal fell dead on the spot. Sad is the fact that both Major Nur and Kamal served together as ADCs to Colonel Osmani during our war of liberation. They knew each other very closely. But what a misfortune! How could those dearly known people appeared as unknown killers! And killed co-fighter Kamal by his own hand! Kamal was a freedom fighter himself. He completed his military training at Deradun, India and joined the liberation war to defend his country. Later Bangladesh government appointed him as one of the ADCs to the wartime Chief of Bangladesh Armed Forces Colonel Osmani.
Major Syed Faruk was firing from a Military Tank aiming at our house. My father made the first call to Army Chief Shafiullah and informed him that the president’s residence was under attack. The latter responded: ‘Let me see. In the meantime, if you can please try to move somewhere outside’.
The telephone at our house started ringing then. On the other end it was the Minister for Agriculture Abdur Rob Serniabat, who was my uncle, husband of one of the sisters of my father. He informed my father that some unknown people had attacked his house. Father informed him that our house was also under attack. My father then called two prominent Awami League Leaders - Abdur Razzak and Tofael Ahmed. Mr. Razzak, who was in charge of a volunteer-based force namely ‘Shwessashebok Bahini (Volunteer Forces)’ told him: ‘Leader, let me see what can be done’. Mr. Tofael Ahmed, who was the head of another paramilitary force named ‘RakkhiBahini’ also repeated similar words. Interestingly, while putting down the receiver he said what could he do? Father then came out of the room to go down. Mother helped him donning his Punjabi, a traditional attire of Bengali people which he always used to wear. Going towards the stairs he was asking about his son Kamal’s whereabouts. While still talking he reached the stairs.
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At that time, the goons who were standing in the middle platform of the staircase started to climb towards the upper floor. My father could recognize Huda among them. Father addressed him by the name of his father: ‘Aren’t you the son of Riaz? What do you want?.....’ Before he could complete his sentence, they opened fire on him. By that time, Risaldar Moslehuddin also joined the killers.
Father fell down on the stairs lifeless by the bullets of the heinous killers. My mother was also approaching the stairwell. The killers had reached the upper floor by then. They blocked my mother’s way and told her to go with them. She said ‘I won’t move a single step, won’t go anywhere. Why did you kill him? You should kill me too!’ They didn’t spare a single moment and killed her instantly. My mother’s lifeless body fell to the floor.
My two brothers Kamal and Jamal were just newly married. Kamal’s wife Sultana Kamal and Jamal’s wife Rozy Jamal were at my parent’s bedroom. Killers shot and killed both of them there. Roma, our helping hand was standing at a corner holding Russel at her lap. My 10 years old youngest brother Russel could not understand anything what was going on. One soldier among the killers took Russel and Roma ( a domestic help) downstairs. They also gathered all others who were at the house at that time.
Our other domestic-help Abdul was shot. They took him too. There was a mango tree in front of our house. They lined up all of them under that tree and started verifying their identity one by one. My uncle, the only brother of my father, was an injured freedom fighter and was disabled. He repeatedly requested them to spare his life. His wife was pregnant and he had immature children. What would happen to them? But the killers paid no hid to his requests. Getting to know his identity, they took him to the bathroom of the office on the ground floor and shot him dead.
Russel was holding Roma’s hand. He was crying and repeatedly saying ‘I want to go to my mother!’ Roma was trying to calm him down and was trying to silence him by saying: ‘Please don’t cry brother otherwise they would kill you.’ But the innocent child kept crying for her mother. One of the goons at that moment wanted to know his identity. Getting to know his identity, he told Russel, ‘Let me take you to your mother’. They dragged the little child over the bodies of his bother and father to upstairs and shot him dead beside the body of his mother. Killers didn’t spare the life even of a ten-year child.
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The house from which Bangabandhu once declared the independence of Bangladesh, was flooded with his blood and of his family members. The pool of blood in which the house was drowned that day flowed down the stairs and got mixed with the land – the land whose people he loved the most.
Shafayet Jamil was in charge of the 46th Brigade. The Chief of Army Staff could not reach him over phone. CGS Khaled Mosharraf also did not fulfil his responsibilities. The Deputy Chief Ziaur Rahman did not even try to take any action rather he was intrinsically linked with the conspiracy. In an interview given to the BBC, killer Rashid and Faruk talkedabout Ziaur Rahman being an accomplice to this heinous crime. Later Killer Mushtaque made Zia the Chief of Army Staff. The then Police Super of Dhaka SP Mahbub was also not reachable over phone.
My Second Aunt’s (second sister of my father) House
Killers attacked the house of my father’s second sister at Dhanmondi under the command of Risaldar Moslehuddin. A group started climbing the stairs while hurling filthy words loudly. Freedom fighter, youth leader and the editor of ‘the daily Banglar Bani’ Sheikh Fazlul Haque Moni came out of his room hearing the noise and stamping of boots. Killers started to curse him in vulgar language aiming their weapons at him. His pregnant wife came running to shield his husband from the bullets. But the killers opened fire on both of them and tore off their bodies with bullets. Their lifeless bodies fell down to the floor. 3 years old Taposh and 5 years old Porosh, their two children , ran towards their parents’ deadbodies. They cried and kept repeating: ‘Please wake up mother, wake up father. Did the parents hear the crying of their beloved children? They did not. Cause by that time they went to the land of no returns. The tears of the innocent children got mixed with the blood of their parents spilled by those inhuman killers.
My Third Aunt’s House
While shooting aimlessly, Major Sultan Shahriar Rashid Khan and Major M A Rashed Chowdhury climbed upstairs of the Ministerial residence of my uncle, husband of the third sister of my father at Minto Road. They dragged all the members of the family out of their bedrooms and forced them down to the living room on the ground floor. Without any qualm, they opened fire on all of them. My aunt Amina Serniabat, my uncle, Minister for Agriculture Abdur Rob Serniabat, their daughters Beauty, Baby and Rina, their son Khokon and Arif, Shahana, wife of their elder son Abul Hasanat Abdullah, grandson Shukanto, son of my uncle’s brother freedom fighter Shahid and nephew Rentu were mercilessly killed. Their granddaughter 8 years old Kanta escaped death being trapped under a dead body. Grandson Sadek who was only one and a half years old was crying lying on his mother’s dead body. Kanta got herself released somehow from under the dead body of her aunt Baby. She was stunned with the scene of lying bodies of her near and dear ones all around. Some lifeless bodies were lying still and some were injured and were groaning in excruciating pain. There was an aquarium at one corner of the room. Bullets broke its glasses and fishes were scattered all over in the blood mixed water. Just a few moments back who were someone’s dear mother, father, grandmother, grandfather, uncle or aunt, turned into blood-soaked dead bodies a few minutes later. Freeing herself from under a dead body, 8 years old child Kanta was standing at the corner of the room and blankly staring in horror to the carnage.
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Major Faruk was shooting from a military tank towards the Bangabandhu Bhaban at Road 32 from across the lake. His firing also killed eleven innocent humans and injured several others in a house and in the vicinity in Mohammadpur area. Major Dalim was in charge of capturing the radio station. From there he announced: Sheikh Mujibur Rahman was killed. Killers did not stop at killing only. They looted out house as well. They broke the cabinet and lockers in my father’s bedroom and dressing room and looted everything of value like ornaments, watches and money etc. Even our residence car was taken by force by Major Huda and Nur.
Blood-soaked clothing was scattered all over the bed. Such looting after the heinous crime of killing the Father of the Nation brings forth the darkest side of their characters. Whoever was connected to this conspiracy, did they realize how big a disaster they had brought on the fate of the people of a newly independent country?
The heart which was filled with great love for the Bengali nation, numerous holes were punched in the same heart with bullets shot by some misled criminals, who were members of his beloved Armed Forces. My father never believed that any Bengali could try to kill or harm him in anyway. Few world leaders had warned him of such a risk. However, he kept saying: ‘they are like my own blood. why would they kill me? Breaching a trust as solid as this, the killers stained the fate of the Bengali people.
How strange was it! At his call, one day people of this country took to arms and earned their freedom as well as victory through 9-month long war of liberation and got the status of a heroic nation in the whole world. On this day in 1975, the same nation came to be known as a treacherous one because of the barbarian act of killing the Father of the Nation and his family members. The majority of the population of this country hates the killers and conspirators as well as considers them as traitors.
Sobhanbag
Hearing something was terribly wrong, the Military Secretary to the President Colonel Jamil started towards the Bangabandhu residence at Dhanmondi 32 by his private vehicle. The attackers stopped his vehicle near the mosque at Sobhanbag. When he tried to move ahead, they shot him point blank and killed him. Sub-Inspector Siddiqur Rahman of Special Branch of Police, who was on duty at our residence that day was also shot and killed.
Belgium
Kring, Kring, Kring…the phone at the residence of the Bangladesh Ambassador to Belgium kept ringing. I woke up immediately and thought why the ring of the telephone was that harsh! I came out of the room and stood near the top of the stairs. Saw Ambassador Sanaul Haque was standing with the telephone receiver in his hand. Looking at me he told me that he would like to talk to Mr. Wazed, my husband. I woke him up. Mr. Humayun Rashid Chowdhury, the Ambassador of Bangladesh to Germany, was on the other end of the line. He informed that there was a Coup d’état in Bangladesh. ‘That means none of my family members are alive’ - the words automatically came out of my lips. My younger sister Rehana was standing beside me. I hugged her tight. But was not sure at that time what did happen actually.
Just 15 days before we came to Germany. From there we came to visit Belgium. We went to the Netherlands too. Father told me, if possible, to visit the facilities through which the Dutch people reclaimed land from the sea.
I spoke to my parents just a day before. For unknown reasons while speaking to us, mother was crying a lot. She told me that she had a lot to share with me and would tell me all once I return to Bangladesh. We felt very bad at that time and felt like rushing back to Bangladesh immediately. Father told us that he had a plan to visit Romania and Bulgaria. On his way back to Bangladesh, he would take us along.
But we could not return to Bangladesh anymore. All was lost in a matter of one day. Sanaul Haque who was a politically appointed Ambassador of Bangladesh to Belgium changed his face overnight and turned his back towards us. He told Ambassador Humayun Rashid Chowdhury in Germany: ‘The troubles that you put on my shoulders; you take them back immediately’.
Just the night before, the person who arranged for a ‘candle light dinner’ for us, took very good care of us looking after all our needs, suddenly started considering us as ‘troubles’. He didn’t even spare his car for dropping us off at the Belgium-Germany borders. Fortunately, my school friend Nomi’s husband Mr. Jahangir Sadat was working at the Bangladesh mission in Brussels at that time and he drove us there in his own car. We crossed the No-Man’s Land on foot and entered into German territory. Our Ambassador to Germany Mr. Humayun Rashid Chowdhury sent his car to pick us up. His wife also sent some dry foods for my children. We took shelter at their residence for couple of days. Their support and care for us in the time of distress was invaluable. We would never be able to forget the contribution of Ambassador and Mrs. Chowdhury. All other officials of our mission in Germany also took good care of us. We went to Karls Rou by the Embassy car.
We were offered political asylum by many including the then Government of Germany, President Marshall Tito of Yugoslavia and Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. Indian Ambassador to Germany came and met Dr. Wazed and Ambassador Chowdhury and arranged everything for our travel to India. Finally, we reached India from Germany.
My journey began with the shocks of blood-stained pain of August 15, 1975. I was able to return to the country on May 17, 1981 after 6 years of losing my parents and brothers. I have come with a promise, that my father made Bangladesh independent, it cannot fail. I will not let the blood of millions of martyrs and the blood of my parents and brothers go to waste.
My journey was easy; I have been targeted time and again. I have been subjected to false propaganda, bullets, bombs and grenade attacks. Khaleda Zia, the wife of murderer Ziaur Rahman, said several times, "Awami League will not be able to come to power even in a hundred years." "Sheikh Hasina, the prime minister will never be the leader of the opposition." After that, the terrible grenade attack on August 21, 2004 happened. Awami League leaders and activists protected me that day by creating a human shield. With Allah above, Awami League leaders and activists and the people of Bangladesh are my strength. They are the ones who are helping me on my thorny way. So, today's Bangladesh has turned around.
Today's Bangladesh has got the status of a developing country due to the people's elected democratic government is in power from 2009 to 2023. We have been able to free the people of Bangladesh from hunger. They have now started dreaming of a better life. Confidence regained.
Father! Wherever you are, your blessing hand is over my head - I can feel it. I will build a golden Bangladesh that you dreamt of by ensuing food, clothing, shelter, medical care and education to the people of the country. The people of your country have received your deep love and the strength of this love is the motivation to move forward.
(Author is the Prime Minister of the Government of Bangladesh and the elder daughter of the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman)
For or against terrorism? When it comes to Bangladesh, US has to decide
Former US Ambassador to Bangladesh Dan Mozena mentioned the role of Bangladesh in fighting terrorism and militancy as one of the key determinants of Bangladesh-US partnership in a private conversation with one of the authors (Dr. Arif) in 2012.
Senator Robert Menendez, chairman of the foreign relations committee of the senate, mentioned in an event organized by one of the authors (Dr. Nabi) in 2022 that the current Bangladesh government of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is a reliable partner of the United States in fighting terrorism.
Both also mentioned that the US would wholeheartedly support any Bangladeshi government stance against militancy.
Bangladesh’s position in the global anti-terrorism fight is significant for various reasons: its geo-political location in the South Asian region, it being the eighth largest country in the world by population, and the fourth largest Muslim country.
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Most importantly, nearly one-fourth of the population of Bangladesh is illiterate and many of them live below the poverty line. Hence, Bangladesh could be a breeding ground for the rise of religious militancy.
The United States along with other western development partners strongly realize this and give utmost importance to Bangladesh accordingly. Development partners including the United States expect a government in Bangladesh that is strongly committed to fighting terrorism.
Sadly, several recent actions by US politicians have raised questions about the ongoing support to Bangladesh in fighting terrorism and religious fundamentalism.
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There is a symbolic meaning of the recent US visa restrictions on Bangladesh.
The BNP-Jamaat led right-wing political parties who have been providing patronage to extremism in Bangladesh took this step by the US as part of their victories in questioning the legitimacy of the current Awami League government.
As lawful citizens of the greatest country on earth, we, Bangladeshi-Americans, strongly agree with the advocacy of the US government for free and fair elections and for maintaining human rights in Bangladesh. We also believe that like any other democratic government, the Awami League government in Bangladesh must be accountable.
There might be room for improvement for the current Awami League government led by Sheikh Hasina. However, the counter-terrorism steps taken by this government are outstanding and none can ignore the success of the Awami League in wiping out the national, regional, and international terrorist organizations in Bangladesh.
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Bangladesh’s position went up almost double — from 23rd to 43rd in the Global Terrorism Index. This is the greatest success of the last one and half decades of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s rule in Bangladesh.
Bangladesh used to be known as one of the hubs of fundamentalism and terrorism in the world before Sheikh Hasina’s government came to power in 2009.
Right after 9/11, BNP came to power in collaboration with the extremist, right-wing party Bangladesh Jamaat-e- Islami. Until then, Bangladesh had never seen such a rise in religious fundamentalism as it happened during the BNP-Jamaat regime in 2001-2006.
International terrorist groups went on a rampage and started mushrooming all over Bangladesh. The international media termed Bangladesh as the next “breeding ground” or “next Afghanistan.”
Sheikh Hasina expressed the firm commitment of her government to wipe out terrorism and fundamentalism right after taking office in 2009. It was one of the agendas in the election manifesto of Bangladesh Awami League.
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People of Bangladesh were utterly frustrated with bombings and killings of progressive writers, activists, and bloggers. Bangladeshis gave a supermajority to the Awami League to fight against those evil elements wreaking havoc in the country.
Sheikh Hasina ordered law enforcement agencies to follow a “zero tolerance” policy in wiping out terrorism from Bangladesh.
As a result, extremist leaders like Bangla Bhai and Shaykh Abdur Rahman, the leader of ‘Jagrata Muslim Janata’, who instructed their forces to bomb all the districts in Bangladesh at the same time were captured and prosecuted in a speedy special tribunal.
In addition, the Awami League government led by Sheikh Hasina rooted out almost all the small terrorist groups that mushroomed during the BNP-Jamaat government.
These actions were not easy for the Awami League. It was particularly politically risky for Sheikh Hasina and her party. Through these actions, however, Bangladesh became a role model among Muslim countries in the fight against religious fundamentalism.
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Recently, the way some US congressmen asked the Biden administration and the United States to put an embargo on Bangladesh raises questions over whether these politicians cross-checked facts or analyzed historical data on Bangladesh.
Under these circumstances, some of us wrote to President Biden and some congressmen, explaining the real situation in Bangladesh and urged them to cross-check information before putting out further statements on the country. Some of them appreciated us for enlightening them on the facts.
We simply stated the facts about the counter-terrorism actions of the Awami League government and how historically the party has been known as pro-minorities compared to the right-wing political parties.
As Bangladeshi-Americans, we felt that some of the congressmen who signed the petition to put an embargo on Bangladesh without any prior knowledge were influenced by lobbyists hired by the BNP-Jamaat coalition.
As Bangladeshi-Americans we are worried about such steps taken by the congressmen. We strongly believe that this kind of initiative is directly contradictory to the ongoing US support in the fight against terrorism and militancy in South Asia.
Like the politicians and the US government, we also support the demand for free and fair elections and ensuring human rights in Bangladesh.
However, we must be extremely cautious when lending support to a cause and not encourage, or worse, facilitate right-wing fundamentalist groups to come to power. This would be against the interests of the United States in South Asia.
We strongly believe that like any other democratic government in the world, Awami League is not above criticism, and they might have some missteps in running the government. However, in terms of the global political scenario, the contributions of the government of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in almost wiping out terrorism in Bangladesh is undeniable.
Dr. Delaware Arif is a digital journalism associate professor in the Department of Communication at University of South Alabama, USA.
Dr. Nuran Nabi is a councilman of Plainsboro Township, New Jersey, USA. He is an Ekushey Padak recipient and a freedom fighter.
Views expressed in this article are the writers’ own.
Indo-Bangla ties: Forged in blood and history, a key driver in geopolitical stability
Since Bangladesh's independence from Pakistan in 1971, India has played a crucial role in supporting our liberation and subsequent development. Over the years, the two countries have managed to develop a cooperative and friendly relationship, addressing various bilateral issues and promoting regional stability. India and Bangladesh share a complex and multifaceted geopolitical relationship that has evolved over the years. The two countries have historical, cultural, and economic ties, as well as contention in some areas.
Historical Background: India and Bangladesh have a shared history, as both countries were part of British India until 1947. The Language Movement in 1952 and the Liberation War in 1971 further strengthened the bond between the two nations. Bangladesh, formerly known as East Pakistan, gained independence from Pakistan in 1971 with India's support. The Indian government played a crucial role in providing military assistance and sheltering millions of Bangladeshi refugees during the Liberation War. This historical event laid the foundation for a close relationship between the two countries.
Bilateral Relations: India and Bangladesh have maintained generally positive bilateral relations. There have been high-level visits and engagements, increased trade and investment, and cooperation in various sectors such as energy, infrastructure, and connectivity. Both countries have signed several agreements on security, border management, water-sharing, and cultural exchanges.
Read: Hasina, Modi inaugurate ‘Indo-Bangla Friendship Pipeline’ to boost energy cooperation
Economic Cooperation: Economic ties between India and Bangladesh have flourished in recent years. Bangladesh is one of India's largest trading partners in South Asia. The two countries have implemented measures to enhance bilateral trade, such as the removal of non-tariff barriers, the establishment of trade facilitation measures, and the promotion of cross-border investments.
Security cooperation: India and Bangladesh have been cooperating closely on security issues, including counterterrorism efforts and intelligence sharing. The two countries have successfully conducted joint military exercises and coordinated border security to combat cross-border threats.
Connectivity and Infrastructure: India and Bangladesh have made significant progress in enhancing connectivity and infrastructure development. Projects like the Maitree Express (train service), the Akhaura-Agartala rail link, and the restoration of inland waterways have strengthened physical connectivity and people-to-people contacts between the two countries.
Boundary Disputes: India and Bangladesh have resolved their long-standing boundary disputes through negotiations and legal processes. The Land Boundary Agreement signed in 2015 facilitated the exchange of enclaves and the demarcation of the land border, bringing about a positive change in border management and security cooperation.
Water Sharing: The issue of sharing water resources, particularly the rivers that flow through both countries, has been a subject of contention. Water sharing, particularly related to the Teesta and Ganges rivers, remains a significant challenge in the India-Bangladesh relationship. However, both countries have engaged in dialogue and are working towards finding a mutually acceptable solution to ensure equitable sharing of water resources.
Read: Hasina, Modi to inaugurate newly-built 'Indo-Bangla Friendship Pipeline' Saturday
Future Outlook: The future of India-Bangladesh geopolitical relations looks promising, with opportunities for further cooperation and collaboration. The countries have demonstrated a commitment to resolving bilateral issues through dialogue and cooperation. They continue to enhance trade and economic ties, improve connectivity, and foster people-to-people exchanges. There is also the potential for greater regional integration through initiatives like the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) and the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC).
Some Potential Areas of Focus
Economic Integration: Both countries can explore avenues to deepen economic integration by expanding trade, investment, and cross-border connectivity. The development of special economic zones and the promotion of regional value chains can contribute to mutual economic growth.
Security Cooperation: Strengthening security cooperation to address transnational challenges such as terrorism, organized crime, and drug trafficking will be crucial. Enhanced intelligence sharing, joint exercises, and capacity building can bolster regional security. Regional stability is crucial for both country’s future developments and security.
Climate Change and Disaster Management: Given the vulnerability of both countries to climate change and natural disasters, collaboration in areas such as disaster management, adaptation, and mitigation can help build resilience and protect shared ecosystems.
Read: Doraiswamy’s keynote to stimulate dialogue on Indo-Bangla relations
People-to-People Contacts: Encouraging cultural exchanges, tourism, and educational collaborations can foster greater understanding and goodwill between the people of India and Bangladesh, strengthening the social fabric of the bilateral relationship. Mutual trust and understanding for these two neighbouring countries are crucial for regional stability.
It is important to note that geopolitical dynamics can be influenced by various factors and can evolve over time. However, challenges may arise, such as managing transboundary water resources, addressing border security concerns, and maintaining a balanced relationship, given the influence of external powers in the region.
Nevertheless, both India and Bangladesh have shown resilience and pragmatism in dealing with such challenges, and they are likely to continue working together to strengthen their geopolitical relationship in the future.
The writer is editor of the Australia-based Bangla portal muktamancha.com
BNP-Jamaat, made for each other
Recently Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami has resurfaced in the political arena. Last Friday, Jamaat men took to the streets, swooped on police and vandalized vehicles, demanding the restoration of the caretaker government system, echoing the demand of Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). A number of media reports quoting the Jamaat top brass also suggest that now both parties have embarked on a mission to overthrow the government. This alliance holds a grisly record of unleashing street violence and targeted attacks on minorities, as well as law enforcers.
It seems that BNP was trying to distance itself from Jamaat over the last few years as they were trying to gain support from India and the western powers. However, they have not moved away from the anti-Liberation War and pro-terrorism politics of Jamaat – a party that not only opposed the birth of Bangladesh but was also involved in crimes against humanity during the Liberation War in 1971. Some BNP leaders were also convicted of crimes against humanity in 1971. Motiur Rahman Nizami and Ali Ahsan Mohammad Mujahid along with some other Jamaat leaders and Salahuddin Quader Chowdhury, a top BNP leader, who committed crimes against humanity during the Liberation War were brought to book by the International Crimes Tribunal.
BNP claims that their alliance with Jamaat is an “electoral alliance, not an ideological one.” But sustaining ties for such a long period is quite impossible without having close ideological alliance. Awami League and its allies have an electoral alliance based on the values emanating from the struggle for independence during Pakistani rule, i.e. democracy, socialism, secularism, and nationalism.
BNP could have been a party upholding liberal democracy. However, its reliance on Jamaat impedes the progressive political development in Bangladesh. On top of that, the so-called Bangladeshi nationalism, though superficially includes all ethnic minorities, disrespects the rights of the minorities by amending the constitution. Ziaur Rahman replaced secularism, as one of the founding principles of Bangladesh, that inspired our freedom fighters. His political move had nothing to do with Islam per se, but rather with the identity politics based on Islam.
Factually, Muslim freedom fighters believed in Allah and it gave them strength in fighting the unjust war imposed on a peace-loving people. But not all freedom fighters were Muslims. Most people believe that people of other faiths shall have their rights and recognition. This is called secularism. Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman stated in the Constituent Assembly in 1972 that secularism does not mean the absence of Islam or any other religion, but rights and recognition of all religions.
The BNP-Jamaat led government directly and indirectly patronized radical Islam. During the BNP-Jamaat led government’s tenure, Bangladesh drew global attention as a “transit route for terrorists”. Mufti Hannan and other Mujahideen who were trained by the CIA to combat Soviet forces in the 1980s became active in Bangladesh during the BNP-Jamaat regime which came to power in October 2001, a month after the 9/11 attack.
A series of terrorist attacks that include successful and unsuccessful assassination attempts on prominent political leaders, writers, artists, and secular intellectuals together with a spate of bomb explosions all across Bangladesh on a single day in 2005, brought Bangladesh to the Western bad book. A generally tolerant and peace-loving population grew intolerant to some extent and a small part of them also got involved in militant activities. The book entitled “Political Islam and Governance in Bangladesh”, edited by Ali Riaz and C. Christine Fair, refers to this as “a permissive government that indirectly and directly benefited from these developments.” And the “permissive government” was the government of the BNP-Jamaat alliance, a match made not in heaven.
The writer is former chairman, National Human Rights Commission of Bangladesh. Views expressed in this article are his own.
Political space: social media replacing streets ?
Two reasonably parallel but occasionally interloping spaces exist in our political world. One is with politicians who basically give speeches and the other is with social media personalities. It’s not easy to say who is more powerful but that there is competition is certain. And professional politicians aren’t necessarily winning. Time for transition and merging is on.
Professional and social media
One doesn’t have to pay exclusive attention to professional media because they also derive their significant influence from social media presence. Many media personalities are visible on TV which again is distributed by social media. TV today is increasingly social media based.
Online media is also split along two or even more groups. There are some online portals which are officially news media outlets. They don’t have any paper existence. They try to be “mainstream professional” but clout is determined by social media views.
Then there are FB/YT/ etc based TV channels which exist in a half formal half informal world, partly professional partly opportunistic. They also produce personalities including political ones.
And then there is the exclusive FB and YouTube based media outlets, chat shows and independent voices and FB lives. Together they are part of a world that in terms of influence is higher than others.
So where is professional politics now?
The politicians have become limited to TV Talk shows where professional politicians have to share space with commentators, many of whom wear just as well known faces as theirs. This makes the political opinion making process a mixed one, not exclusive to politicians. Just as the form is not exclusive, the content is also varied. They may form some very broad outlines but political significance is now determined by all kinds of faces from different worlds.
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Once everything was a “birat jonosobha “where the politician communicated with the people directly but that phase is over. It was in a time where “Call ready” brand mikes mattered most in politics. The image of the politician be it Sk. Mujib or Maualana Bhashani without the mike addressing massive rallies at Paltan Maidan would be impossible to imagine.
These occasions were also big because communication opportunities were fewer. But it’s precisely the opposite that exists now. There are endless opportunities and spaces and everyone chats with everyone all day. Digitalization has expanded the political space in every way and it has transformed the political space as well as the politicians.
In today’s political world of Bangladesh, mass rallies are held but they have symbolic value. There is no call to battle type of slogan, no declaration that shapes the future. The decline of physical politics is obvious. In fact such calls are made every day on social media making resistance and movements a digitally dominated discussion.
The shape of current politics
What survives in the name of street politics is confrontation and violence rather than political encounters such as debates and elections. While the AL and the BNP both try to outdo each other in comparing their rally sizes, the fact remains that it’s not where the impact is made the most. Today social media reaches out to all shaping and strengthening not just the activists but the ideas of many lesser beings, who scrolling through social media are getting digitally involved in politics regularly. It's “Politics from Home” days now.
Read: Why social media is being blamed for fueling the riots in France
People professionally tracking social media say that, while many go to social media, not all believe in it. This is true but millions do and the doubters and thinkers who were influential are minorities now while the proverbial herd of public opinion is in social media’s control.
Hero Alam and Arafat
If one were looking for any example on the link between social media and politics, none is better than the two leading contenders for the recent Dhaka election.. Both Arafat and Hero Alam are products of social media largely. Their spaces differ as Arafat is the pro-AL professional intellectual, defending the cause of the ruling party. He does so articulately so the AL crowd follows him and concurrently, the BNP + crowd hates him. But he has no track record in a past political life and nor connected to any AL family member but is very seriously taken as their mouthpiece. On the digitals screen he was birthed by social media largely.
Hero Alam is an even bigger presence whose risé –again courtesy of social media – was also bereft of a political past which began only when he entered politics using his entertainment related activities. His political ideas and plans hardly matter as he is basically a very recognizable face who has become a counter- elite of sorts and not just a political one. However, in the end, both have a brand and that can be traced to social media.
They are not the only faces that we know but will know in future politics. Political stars are no longer being produced by the part system alone. Social media has begun to redo the face of politics itself and decide who will live there.
Read more: Seattle schools sue tech giants over social media harm
Politics of Lies
Democracy survives and thrives on various opinions provided by and debates by political parties, civil society organizations, and individuals. However, if the opinions contain misinformation and disinformation with the intention to malign the opponent, it cannot help democracy flourish. Unfortunately, this is exactly what’s happening in Bangladesh.
BNP prepared a list of 500 police personnel and sent that to foreign diplomats. These policemen of different ranks, BNP leaders alleged, were involved in human rights abuses and voting irregularities in Bangladesh’s national election held in late 2018.
Khandaker Mosharraf Hossain, one of the standing committee members of BNP, told media that the information would be presented to the international community.
BNP claimed that most of these 500 policemen were working in the field level during the 2018 national election and got promoted for their actions at that time. Promotion is a regular phenomenon in governmental and non-governmental offices. Many policemen apart from those who have been targeted by the BNP also got promoted for their performance. How can we differentiate? Probably, the BNP would have been happy if the policemen lent their support to the party. Police did not have any constitutional obligation to declare the BNP winner in the 2018 national election. BNP already had internal problems with the nomination business and external problems of distance from the people due to failure to represent public interests.
Before the state visit of Jean-Pierre Lacroix, United Nations Under Secretary-General for Peace Operations, to Bangladesh, some human rights organizations such as Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International raised the demand for not including Bangladeshi security force members in peacekeeping missions and stricter screening process.
BNP shared a post of the Human Rights Watch from their official Twitter handle and wrote: “Killers should not be peacekeepers.” The fact is that every member of the armed forces is not selected for UN peacekeeping. They must fulfill some criteria. Respecting human rights is, of course, one of them. In most cases, this rule is followed. So indiscriminate allegations against our patriotic and world-renowned peace-loving members of the armed forces as “violators of human rights” will demoralize the armed forces.
On January 5, 2014, the 10th national election took place. BNP, the main opposition party, did not participate in the election. Rather they decided to resist the elections violently. They launched a terrorizing protest movement. They jeopardized people’s lives and properties. Ironically, on February 4, 2014, Khaleda Zia claimed that law enforcement agencies and activists of Awami League killed 242 BNP-led alliance members in 34 districts of Bangladesh. On February 10, 2014, The Daily Star, a prominent national daily, published a report after cross-checking data from different sources and came to the conclusion that it was a “jugglery of figures”. The report said, “Khaleda put the death figure in Sirajganj at 14 that includes seven members of the BNP, Chhatra Dal and Jubo Dal.” But Harunar Rashid Hasan, office secretary of Sirajganj district BNP, informed The Daily Star that “only one Jubo Dal leader was killed during that time.” The Daily Star gave an interesting title to the report, “Sorry, Khaleda” because the figure provided by Khaleda Zia did not match facts on the ground. It was far-fetched from the truth.
Lies have many facets. In Bangladesh, it mainly revolves around the number of victims of human rights abuses. In this way, unfortunately, the discourse of human rights has been politicized. The numbers of disappearance given by different human rights groups are far from the number provided by the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights. Definitely, the UN report is not beyond questions. Sultana Kamal, a leading Bangladeshi human rights activist, said that the UN and international human rights organizations should not bank on a single source in their collection of data relating to human rights abuses. She argued that political parties would have allegations against each other but human rights organizations should ensure the veracity of their data. She also said that the government should not evade its duty to uncover the truth. It also has a duty not to blame either non-state actors as the sole perpetrator of the human rights abuses or the victims themselves.
Another facet of lies is to manipulate human emotions for narrow party interests. Let’s consider Mayer Daak for this purpose. It was formed in 2013 to work for the disappeared persons and their families. Without a doubt, it was a noble cause. They initially did some good work. However, this organization has been transformed into a forum for the aid of foreign powers by supplying them with fake stories of human rights abuses to help in their mission. This has doubly jeopardized the real victims of human rights violations.
Bangladesh became independent through a bloodbath during the war of liberation. The United States and some other powers were against the birth of Bangladesh at the time. Nevertheless, we want a good relationship based on mutual respect and sovereignty. BNP ran the government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh in the past. It should have thought twice before lowering the dignity of our motherland before the foreign powers. We fought against British colonialism and Pakistani internal colonialism. Both of them came from the West. Now we are fighting Western imperialism in its new form — disguising itself as a savior of human rights.
We all need to work together to improve the situation of human rights and democracy in Bangladesh. Unfortunately, democracy cannot flourish if major political parties like BNP act like a party of pathological liars. From their fake history of Ziaur Rahman as the proclaimer of our independence to present-day misinformation on human rights violations, BNP has a pandora’s box of lies and half-truths. Lastly, democracy depends on mass movement — based on people’s support for a cause. BNP has failed to show the people that they have a people’s cause.
The writer is former chairman, National Human Rights Commission of Bangladesh. Views expressed in this article are his own.
Iliyas Bhai, who are you ? Bengali nationalism’s contradictions
So dear Iliyas bhai, now that you are dead, I wonder if you can get a sense of history that dictated your life more than any other force. I didn’t want to write a longish farewell note as your departure was a personal matter for me. But reading several other notes, I thought I would discuss a few points –shall I call them contradictions- of your life, history and ours as well.
The roots
After your passing away, not many were sure about what to say about your death. After all, you were an Urdu speaker. You were here in 1971. Should they mourn the man who had led a heroic life which they didn’t know about or abuse him as a pro-Pakistani Urdu speaking agent of Yahya Khan without knowing much. ? It took a few days to recover some facts about you and now it’s safer to mourn your passing away as a poet. The poet’s identity is safe though not the rest.
But let’s face the fact. You were not a Bengali and if not who are you to our shushil consciousness dominated by linguistic culture ? In our simple peasant arithmetic, you speak Bengali therefore you exist and are part of us. It doesn’t matter that half of the Bengalis of Bengal refused to form an independent state –a united Bengal- in 1947 and decided to join India.
That Bengalis have never been one people, always split along lines of resistance and collaboration with colonialism is not something we like to dwell upon. We like to cling to historical fiction which helps our enjoyment of cultural products produced by those who sought the partition of Bengal in 1947.
Iliyas, the Urdu speaking “Bengali” nationalist?
Once Facebook felt more confident that Iliyas bhai was not a “traitor of Bengali nationalism” , his various political affiliations were mentioned including his support for the 6 points movement. Not much exactly about his closeness to Maulana Bhashani btw.
What few mentioned or know even is his long history of organizing Urdu speakers of East Pakistan who were mostly émigrés from India. Bangladeshis call them “Biharis” , the misnamed victims of colonial political history and two states being forced to become one Pakistan. No matter where he went, Iliyas bhai was designated as a “good Bihari”.He just could never become a good “Bangladeshi because for that you need to be a Bengali. It doesn’t matter that half of the so-called Bengali population are citizens of another state.
Born in 1934 in Kolkata, he finally settled in Dhaka in 1953. Poverty prevented higher education and like so many bright young men without money or connections he joined the media world. He was first a manager of the Press Club and later a journalist in various publications. He also became active in media trade unionism.
Iliyas bhai was part of the pro-East Pakistan Urdu journalists’ protesting Ayub Khan’s politics including sanctions against Tagore. In Bengali nationalism’s world, it was a contradiction that can’t be resolved. So let’s ignore this contradiction and anachronism.
In 1969, he along with others, organized the Muhajir convention which was the platform of pro-East Pakistan even AL-NAP politics supporting Urdu speakers. But it was a sincere but fragile effort as “Bengali nationalism “ had taken proto religious forms, very defined by exclusion and inclusion parameters based on ethno-linguistic frames.
A splendid portrait of the third cow child
The nationality test after 1971
Urdu media after 1971 was impossible and Iliyas bhai suffered the indignity of being labeled a “traitor” by reasons of his ancestral language. He had wholeheartedly sided with Bangladesh but it didn’t matter. His past in East Pakistan didn’t matter. He was only a Urdu speaker, hence a “Bihari”, hence a traitor.
There was no space for him in Bengali Bangladesh. Nobody says how he survived till 1975, bearing the stigma of collective demonization of a community. Finally, in 1975, he got a job in an NGO and entered a new world , where his dignity would be more intact. He had never wanted to go to Pakistan.
In 1980, he set up Al-Falah, dedicated to the betterment of the life of Geneva camp dwellers, read Biharis if you will. His book "Biharis: The Indian Emigres in Bangladesh ' drew attention to the plight of the camp dwellers of Bangladesh as well. He wrote several more books, all focused on the life of the Urdu speakers of Bangladesh, a strange contradiction of history in which he had no place.
Why a cry for democracy shouldn’t be a cry for destabilisation in Bangladesh
Many did want to go to Pakistan, the “stranded Pakistanis” as they were called but more and more didn’t. As the next generations grew up, this collective desire lessened naturally till it became just any convenient destination.
And Iliyas bhai remained firm in a world which never accepted him. Not when he came, not when he lived and nor when he died.
South Asia goes for strategic polyamory
“ I was born and grown up as Indian
I became matured as Pakistani
I remained stateless for 37 years
I will die as a Bangladeshi.”
US -China conflict: A civilizational or a cold war ?
The Wagner rebellion has proven that Putin’s world is shaky and decidedly incompetent. Western commentators are also saying that it has hit China too. Since, both are allies, therefore, a weak Russia means the Sino-Russo alliance is weakened and thus so is China.
Some have also speculated that the alliance itself is weakening as China is now taking advantage of the Russian problems and making money through trade and other deals. Reports are cited that China had requested Russia to postpone the invasion till after the Olympics to settle several other issues before it. However Russia went ahead but China has coped and also took advantage of the situation to make money and strengthen its currency. It’s also waiting to take over the leadership of the anti-West cluster as Russia and Putin are shrinking in clout and victories every day and China will lead by default.
Read: Just a day after Blinken’s Beijing visit to stabilize US-China relations, Biden calls Xi Jinping a ‘dictator’
No matter what the veracity of the observations, the fingers point to a West that is very concerned about the inevitable /potential rise of China and the inevitable slide of Russia –already visible- due to the Ukraine war .
Is “race”/”civilization” pushing US policy?
It’s curious how the responses and interpretation of the new cold war –“Sino –US” differs from the older version. The Chinese are part of the “inscrutable East '' while Russia, despite being a bad boy, is part of the West. As scholar Samuel Huntingdon had said this in his book “Clash of Civilizations,’ Russia is part of the West.
In general Western public are far less bothered about international politics. They are focused on everyday life issues, hence domestic politics dominates. Interestingly, public interest rises only when foreign policy conflicts are reported on Iran, North Korea and China. It’s obvious who the enemies are in most minds.
Various studies including election related ones have shown that most right wingers and ideological racists are in favour of military engagement with Muslim states and China. Due to voting reasons and strategy, it’s not easy to speak of engagement and win votes. And it was easier to deal with one “evil” power-Soviet Union- but after a spell of Muslim countries- Iran, Iraq, Syria- as super villains, China has emerged as the big one. It’s more uncomfortable because it has emerged to contest the US when life was supposed to be easier after the Soviet Union’s fall.
Read: Blinken and Xi pledge to stabilize deteriorated US-China ties, but China rebuffs the main US request
For the US, it’s easy to understand Russia but both China and the Islamic world present a face they don’t know how to handle. They have nothing in common with these “Villains”.
China not “White” ?
Apart from the obvious race connotations which are globally common, such colour codes do denote power plays as well. Human History began with the Blacks, then moved to the Whites and the Yellow challenge is now taking place. The combined economic strength of the South East Asian countries including Japan and China are huge and they form a racial bloc as well. Any ‘racial “transition concept is denied in international politics and academia or that it isn’t a major but it does exist as fact. Hence China as a contestant is not just an economic power but a civilizational and cultural competitor as well.
Read more: Blinken to meet Xi, State Department says, in bid to ease US-China tensions
The recent Wagner episode shows that Russia is indeed weaker and its model of outsourced warfare carries inherent problems too. And this weakened Russia means the anti-Western axis is increasingly coming under China’s leadership though how effective one is not sure. What it does say is that the obvious failure to end the war and the more obvious failure to use the war by both sides - Russia and the West- to gain proves once more the limits of Western supremacy has been seen.
And that makes China even more visible than before and so is its perception as a threat.
Disclaimer: Views expressed here are of the writer.