Fulfill people’s aspirations

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus yesterday said the students are the guardians of the nation and urged them to continue their efforts to transform the country’s future.

“You have already turned the impossible into possible and changed the country,” he said, laying emphasis on the immense trust the nation places in them.

The chief adviser reminded them that their victories must fuel the hopes of the people and encourage them to stay alert and committed to progress.

“You must fulfill the people’s aspirations. At least you should move forward in that direction. You have achieved a victory, and another one will come.”

Prof Yunus made the remarks during a dialogue with a delegation of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement. The meeting was held at the state guesthouse Jamuna at 6:30pm.

“You [students] are the guardians of the country… Don’t forget this role. Don’t forget your own role. Many are here and many are not. But those who are not here are also the guardians of the state,” Prof Yunus told students, reports BSS.

During the meeting, the students asked the chief adviser to take steps to check prices of essentials, confer state honour upon the martyrs in the movement, give top priority to proper treatment to the injured, and ensure punishment of those involved in the July massacre.

The students expressed concern over the propaganda being spread against the government in the media and social media and suggested establishing an anti-propaganda cell.

Welcoming the students’ suggestions regarding the price control of essentials, Prof Yunus said a few people controlling the prices will not be tolerated.

He said the government is trying to keep the prices of commodities stable and the highest efforts must be made to keep the prices steady during Ramadan.

After the meeting, Hasnat Abdullah, a convener of the organisation, said Bangladesh will not compromise even an inch on the question of sovereignty and territorial integrity with India.

“Don’t see this government through the lens of the Awami League. Instead, build a relationship of fairness with it…

Hasnat accused the AL of using the minority card to perpetuate a narrative that the interests of the Hindu community would only be safeguarded under its rule.

“We want to send a clear message: the Awami League government’s oppression, persecution, and looting of minority property are unparalleled in history,” he said.

He said, “If you [India] think only the Awami League can protect minority rights, you are entirely mistaken.”

Hasnat also criticised what he termed the “Indian mindset” held by some individuals within Bangladesh.

“Many of our Hindu brothers, while physically present in Bangladesh, hold an Indian mindset. Let me be clear: when it comes to sovereignty and territorial integrity, Hindus, Buddhists, Muslims, and Christians will fight together.”

He alleged that India has relied on the AL to maintain unfair relationships with Bangladesh over the past 16 years. “If you believe these unjust ties can continue, you are wrong.”

“India has always viewed Bangladesh through the Awami League’s perspective. The relationship has not been one between the people of the two countries or even between two states, but rather between India and the Awami League.”

Hasnat highlighted the importance of people-to-people and state-to-state relationships between Bangladesh and India.

“We urge the chief adviser to disclose all secret agreements made with the Awami League and the Indian government, ensure justice for border killings, including Felani’s case, and guarantee Bangladesh’s fair share of water.

“Our trade relations with India must be based on fairness and dignity,” he added.