Politics and Bureaucracy
Matia Chowdhury embraced public service as the mission of her life
The passing of Matia Chowdhury, famously known as the "Agni Kanya" (Daughter of Fire), marks the fall of a shining star in Bangladesh’s political sphere. Throughout her long political career, Matia Chowdhury made significant contributions to the socio-economic development of the country. Completely indifferent to wealth and riches, she was a symbol of honesty and integrity in her personal life. Despite holding positions like the Minister of Agriculture three times and various other responsibilities, she was never accused of corruption or nepotism. A key organizer of the Liberation War, Matia Chowdhury led a simple and humble life, free from any luxury or extravagance.
Long-term democratic practices will build a strong Bangladesh
A few days ago, at an event in the National Press Club auditorium, an intellectual stated, “It is not enough to have free elections for democracy to be established in the country. Long-term practice and engagement are necessary. To establish democracy, it is essential to create a national consensus among citizens on various issues and to awaken democratic consciousness.”
Uncontrolled Market: Who holds the responsibility?
The prices of essential goods are not coming under control at all. The prices of rice, lentils, oil, fish, meat, sugar, and eggs are rising, and now the prices of vegetables have also skyrocketed. The cost of vegetables is jumping rapidly, leaving the general public in distress. After the fall of the Awami League government, there was a sudden drop in vegetable prices, which brought joy to many. People thought happiness had returned, but this situation did not last even two days. Citing rain and floods as excuses, the prices of various vegetables surged even higher than before. Currently, prices in the fresh market are out of control for almost all products without any apparent reason. Most vegetables are now priced at 80 to 100 takas per kilogram. As a result, limited-income consumers are struggling as they enter the market with their bags. There are growing questions among buyers about who is controlling the market, or if anyone is in control at all. Some have even started reminiscing about the better days of the past.
"Second Independence" is emotional expression
Many people don’t think deeply about the implications of the terms they use. Independence is something that every nation achieves only once. We often refer to it as the "Second Liberation Struggle." We attained our independence in 1971 and established a sovereign nation-state, but we never achieved political and economic liberation. Even in an independent country, people have lived in subjugation for a long time. After independence, we were often under Indian influence. There has always been Indian aggression in cultural and economic spheres. Therefore, we can refer to the fall of a fascist government backed by India as a form of "liberation." However, the term "Second Independence" cannot be accurately described in the language of social or political sciences. It may serve as an expression of people's emotions.
Let inclusive democracy be the priority reform of interim government
The interim government has been in office for about two months. While this period is too brief for a comprehensive evaluation, we can still make a preliminary assessment of its performance.
What’s story behind Hilsa hype
The ‘hype’ around Hilsa has now become a source of hypertension for many. Observing the reactions of citizens in the media and on social platforms might give the impression that only the price of Hilsa is high, and all other fish are within reach! The frenzy over Hilsa makes it seem like life would be ruined without eating this fish or that it’s perhaps a magical cure for all diseases. The reality is, there are countless people for whom Hilsa holds no special appeal. Many do not even like it. So, why all the fuss? Does this frenzy drive up the price of Hilsa?
We must coexist by recognizing the rights of indigenous communities
In a discussion titled "Post-Revolution Constitution Debate: Exploring Origins and Destinations," poet and thinker Farhad Mazhar delivered a speech on September 23, organized by July Public Forum. The written version of his remarks is now published for the readers of Views Bangladesh. Today, we present the second part of the discussion.
Mob Justice Undermines Mass Uprisings
Tofazzal Hossain, who was mentally unstable, was brutally beaten to death on September 18, 2024, at Dhaka University's Fazlul Haque Hall on the suspicion of theft. Six university students have since confessed to their involvement and provided statements in court. Among them is a former leader of the Chhatra League, who had served as the Deputy Secretary for Science and Technology Affairs in Fazlul Haque Hall's Chhatra League. He had resigned from the Chhatra League at the onset of the quota reform and anti-discrimination student movement, choosing instead to actively participate in the protests. The political affiliations of the other five have not been disclosed.
Let there be mass resistance against mass beatings
Two individuals were beaten to death on the same day at Dhaka University and Jahangirnagar University. A group of students attacked a young man suspected of theft in Fazlul Haque Muslim Hall at Dhaka University. Meanwhile, at Jahangirnagar University, a former Chhatra League leader was also killed by mob violence. In Khagrachari, a youth named Mohammad Mamun was beaten to death on allegations of motorcycle theft. This incident sparked clashes and violence between Adivasis and Bengali settlers in Dighinala.
Why mob justice rages on defying the government order?
Two individuals were beaten to death on the same day at the country’s top two public universities, allegedly by their fellow students. Among the victims was a student and an activist affiliated with a political party. The other victim, who was mentally unstable, was killed on suspicion of theft. Disturbingly, reports indicate that prior to the fatal attack, he was made to sit at a table and was fed rice, a scene that has circulated widely in both mainstream and social media.
Trending Views
