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Chiroranjan Sarker

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Columnist

Why youths in Nepal suddenly erupted into bloody protest
Why youtus in Nepal

Why youths in Nepal suddenly erupted into bloody protest

Although Nepal, at the foot of the Himalayas, is well known for its geographical diversity, cultural heritage and rich history, its journey as a state has been far from smooth. Since independence the country has passed through many political experiments—sometimes monarchy, sometimes democratic rule, and at times military influence. After the abolition of the monarchy in 2008 and the transition to a republic, Nepalis hoped for a new future. People expected that after years of turmoil a democratic culture would be established, corruption would decrease, development would be for all, and governance would become transparent. Sadly, those expectations remain unfulfilled.

The malpractice of secret politics
secret politics

The malpractice of secret politics

It seems a new stage has emerged in the politics of Bengal. Once upon a time, politics meant open struggle – who could chant slogans the loudest, who could bring the largest procession, who could stir up the crowd by crying out “Joy Bangla” or “Bangladesh Zindabad” in the highest voice. Back then politicians did not hide their identity, rather they were proud to say: “I am a worker of such-and-such party, I am a follower of such-and-such ideology.” But times have changed. Such simple declarations now appear old-fashioned. On the political stage there is now a new wave – not what is open, but what happens behind the scenes is the real thing; its name is secret politics.

Lament of white stone and an epic plunder
stone and an epic plunder

Lament of white stone and an epic plunder

Bangladesh is a country where history, politics, and theft seem to have walked hand in hand since birth. Here, the flow of honesty, like that of a river, sometimes runs dry. Just as nature gradually loses its beauty, honest people too are on the path to extinction.

Dr. Yunus’s Speech: Lofty vision or recycled reassurance?
Dr. Yunus’s Speech

Dr. Yunus’s Speech: Lofty vision or recycled reassurance?

One year after the July Uprising, Chief Advisor Dr. Muhammad Yunus delivered a speech to the nation outlining an ambitious vision for the country’s future. At first glance, it might appear that this government genuinely intends to bring about change. However, as the colorful narrative of hope unfolded, it also triggered a sense of déjà vu—we’ve heard these promises before. Different governments, different faces, and different regimes have repeatedly assured the people of new beginnings, only to abandon those very beginnings when it no longer served their interests. Rooted in that collective experience, the people today listen not with hope, but with skepticism. The question naturally arises: Is this yet another version of the old game, only with a new spokesperson?

Extortion: A postmodern revolutionary culture
revolutionary culture

Extortion: A postmodern revolutionary culture

The very word 'extortion' evokes a mixed feeling. As if it is a folk tradition unique to Bengal, which, through sweat, blood, and the dust of the streets over generations, has taken on a distinct form in today’s modern society. There are numerous types of extortion: hall gate extortion, procession extortion, iftar party extortion, and the latest addition—movement extortion.

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