Conflict not the answer, peaceful resolution essential

The recent anti-discrimination student movement has led to a nationwide violent situation. Ordinary students, police officers, pedestrians, political party activists, and even children have not been spared from this violence. Over two hundred people have lost their lives, and several thousand have been injured, making this an unprecedented crisis. At one point, the situation became so critical that the government had to deploy the army and impose a curfew. Yet, the nationwide panic and anxiety have not subsided. Experts believe that there is no alternative to a peaceful resolution in such a scenario.

Starting today, Sunday (August 4th), the anti-discrimination student movement has initiated a comprehensive non-cooperation program, demanding the resignation of the government. On the other hand, the Awami League has announced a gathering program. Due to the opposing stances of the two groups, news of several deaths has already been reported in the media. Such news is not favorable for any democratic country.

Because this violence is leading to an increasing number of fatalities and property damage. The families of the deceased are plunged into deep sorrow, a loss that can never be compensated. There is nothing more valuable than human life. On the other hand, the economic damage is equally alarming. Over the past month, the country's economy and business sectors have suffered the most. Even though some factories have reopened after being closed for a while, the ongoing student movement has created new uncertainties.

Bangladesh's economy, heavily reliant on ready-made garment exports and remittances, is facing uncertainty. The dollar crisis is worsening. Higher education institutions have been closed for over a month. Primary and secondary schools are also in a state of disruption. Although the government announced the reopening of primary schools, it has been postponed again. The HSC exams have been postponed until August 10th.

Sadly, many questions have arisen regarding the investigation and justice for these casualties and attacks. There are also questions about why the student movement, which began as non-political, took on a political dimension, and who the political forces behind it are. Therefore, we must say that for the sake of justice, any incident requires a fair and credible investigation. To ensure proper justice for murder and sabotage, an independent and impartial investigation commission is necessary. Although the government has formed an investigation commission led by Justice Khondker Delwar Hossain, a neutral investigation by the United Nations or at the international level would also reveal the truth.

Therefore, it is imperative to conduct an impartial investigation in the interest of good governance, rather than concealing the truth. Additionally, the government's call to restore peace and normalcy in the country will only be successful when students and the public see that the government has moved away from the path of force. Hence, to restore a healthy and normal state, the first step is for the government to abandon the use of force.

We must remember that this incident could lead to further complex situations nationwide, which would be unfavorable for any party. Moreover, there is a risk of humanitarian disaster. Therefore, we do not want any form of violence; we seek a peaceful resolution to this crisis.