Key Protest Leader Challenges Army's Late-Night Summoning of Student Activists
Sarjis Alam, a prominent figure in Bangladesh's 2024 student protests and leader of the National Citizen Party (NCP), has raised concerns regarding recent army actions involving student leaders. The army personnel reportedly summoned and questioned student leaders from the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and Students Against Discrimination (SAD) in connection with vandalism at the residence of Jatiyo Party Chairman GM Quader in Rangpur.
Army's Warning Against Vandalism
Brigadier General Humayun Kaiyum, commander of the Bangladesh Army's 72nd Infantry Brigade, stated that the army’s stance is firm against those who disrupt public peace or engage in vandalism, including setting fires or damaging homes under mob violence. He emphasized that such disruptive acts will no longer be tolerated.
Questions Raised Over Army's Actions
Alam questioned the timing and message sent by the army's interrogation procedures, which reportedly occurred at late hours, around 1:00 or 2:00 a.m. He argued that while investigations requiring questioning of individuals from any political group, including BNP, SAD, Jamaat, or NCP, may be necessary, the timing sends a concerning impression.
Furthermore, Alam challenged the army to clarify its past security efforts by asking how many operations have been conducted over the last nine months to apprehend perpetrators involved in violent acts against members of the Bangladesh Awami League.
Political Context and Election Dispute
Sarjis Alam is known to be a close associate of Muhammad Yunus, the chief adviser to Bangladesh's interim government, who has been in disagreement with the army over the timing of forthcoming elections. Yunus has sought to delay the elections until June, whereas other political groups, including the Jatiyo Party, advocate for earlier polls.
The attack on GM Quader’s residence in Rangpur’s Senpara area occurred recently, with Quader present during the incident. The Jatiyo Party, which remains critical of Yunus, insists on an expedited election schedule. Party official Masroor Mawla emphasized that election delays cause investor insecurity, negatively impacting both current and potential investment in Bangladesh.
Summary
- Student leaders from BNP and SAD were questioned by army personnel regarding vandalism at a Jatiyo Party leader’s home.
- Brigadier General Humayun Kaiyum highlighted the army’s zero tolerance for public disruption and vandalism.
- Sarjis Alam condemned the late-night questioning and urged transparency on arrests related to political violence.
- Political tensions persist over election timing, with Muhammad Yunus favoring postponement and the Jatiyo Party demanding earlier polls.
