Phulbari Tragedy Day today

Today marks the 19th anniversary of the Phulbari Tragedy, a significant event in Bangladesh’s environmental and human rights movement. On this day in 2006, three protesters—Amin, Salekin, and Tariqul—were killed and over 250 others injured when law enforcement opened fire on demonstrators opposing an open-pit coal mining project by the UK-based company Asia Energy.

The protest, organized by the National Committee for the Protection of Oil, Gas, Mineral Resources and Power Ports, was aimed at halting the controversial mining project in Phulbari. Thousands of people from Phulbari and surrounding areas took part in the demonstration. Following the deadly incident, mass protests spread across the region, ultimately forcing the government on August 30, 2006, to sign the ‘Phulbari Agreement,’ committing to cancel the project and meet the demands of the protesters.

To commemorate the tragedy and demand implementation of the agreement, several programs were held today, including mass gatherings, black badge wearing, mourning rallies, wreath-laying ceremonies, discussions, and prayers. These were organized by the National Committee, local professional groups, and the residents of Phulbari.

Despite nearly two decades passing, locals claim that the six-point agreement has yet to be implemented. They also allege that false cases have been filed against protesters instead of honoring the government’s commitments.

Muratuja Sarkar Manik, convener of the Phulbari Sammilit Professional Organization and former municipal mayor, criticized the failure to uphold the agreement. “The promises made in 2006 remain unfulfilled. Instead, new cases have been filed against the people of Phulbari,” he said.

Syed Saiful Islam Jewel, convener of the Phulbari branch of the National Committee, echoed the demands for justice. “We call on the interim government to withdraw all false cases against protesters and take legal action against those working in favor of Asia Energy’s interests,” he said.