Anu Muhammad criticises govt over lack of reform and river initiatives

Economist and former professor Anu Muhammad has criticised the government for the lack of clarity on reforms, saying that although there has been more discussion on the issue since the formation of the caretaker government than in the past 54 years, the details remain vague.

Speaking at a discussion session at the National Press Club’s Tofazzal Hossain Manik Mia Auditorium on Friday, Professor Muhammad said, “It is still unclear exactly where reforms stand and how they will be implemented. Most discussions have focused on the constitution, but genuine initiatives in other areas are missing.”

He particularly highlighted the absence of reforms concerning rivers, despite their crucial role in the country’s survival. “Rivers are part of our existence. Without them, life itself is at risk,” he said.

Professor Muhammad criticised the government for not taking meaningful steps to manage rivers. He suggested that authorities should involve river stakeholders and ratify the 1997 International Watercourse Convention. Since India has not signed the convention, he believes Bangladesh should take the initiative.

He also pointed out that India is reluctant to participate in multilateral discussions on water distribution, and even in bilateral talks, Bangladesh has gained little. “Our success in maritime boundary disputes was achieved through international law. We need alternative strategies to ensure fair river water distribution,” he said.

On the inter-river connection project, he noted that the complications arising in India primarily affect the Indian population. He added that Indian experts have opposed the Farakka Barrage, and voices for its removal are emerging within India. He urged Bangladesh to support anti-dam activists in India and pressure the ruling class there.

Professor Muhammad identified three main causes of river disasters in Bangladesh: Indian river encroachment, destructive development projects within the country, and the control and pollution caused by powerful individuals and groups. He warned that even without climate change, many river-destructive projects have been implemented for the benefit of the powerful.