The NCP convener urged the government to ensure a democratic atmosphere on campuses, following a series of clashes involving student organisations.
NCP Convener and Opposition Chief Whip Md Nahid Islam speaks at the discussion titled “From Resistance to Victory: Legacy of July.” Photo: Courtesy
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NCP Convener and Opposition Chief Whip Md Nahid Islam speaks at the discussion titled “From Resistance to Victory: Legacy of July.” Photo: Courtesy
National Citizen Party (NCP) Convener and Opposition Chief Whip Md Nahid Islam today (4 August) warned the government against engaging in confrontation with students, urging it to preserve a democratic environment across educational institutions
He made the remarks while addressing a discussion titled “From Resistance to Victory: Legacy of July”, organised by Sammilita Besarkari Bishwabiddalay Chhatrashakti.
His comments came against the backdrop of clashes involving Jatiotabadi Chatradal, Islami Chhatra Shibir and other student organisations at Jagannath University, Dhaka College and Government Madrasah-e-Alia earlier in the day.
“Educational institutions are once again being turned into sanctuaries of terror. Attempts to occupy residential halls and establish dominance over campuses have resumed,” Nahid said.
He alleged that Chatradal activists had attacked Jatiya Chhatra Shakti leaders and Jagannath University Central Students’ Union (JnUCSU) representatives at Jagannath University, while also attempting to establish control at Dhaka College and Government Madrasah-e-Alia.
Nahid also referred to an incident in Habiganj in which an activist named Alif lost an eye in an attack.
Urging the government to avoid repeating past mistakes, he said, “Do not get into any trouble with students. Let them study without hindrance. Maintain the democratic process in educational institutions and create employment opportunities.”
Criticising what he described as attempts to dominate educational institutions, Nahid added, “This government thinks that because it is in power, it can occupy everything. Sheikh Hasina thought the same, and you saw the outcome.”
Highlighting the contribution of private university students during the July Uprising, Nahid described them as the “trump card” of the movement.
“The autocratic government never imagined that private university students would come onto the streets in such numbers. We remember their sacrifices with deep respect. However, it is unfortunate that this government has taken no meaningful initiatives regarding private universities,” he said.
Among those present at the discussion were NCP Spokesperson Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuiyan, political board member Ali Ahsan Junaid, Joint Member Secretary Rafe Salman Rifat, Jatiya Chhatra Shakti President Jahid Ahsan, General Secretary Abu Baker Mazumder, and leaders from several private universities.
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