Nirmul Committee marked 36th anniversary of 'Dark Night of Genocide'
25 March, 2007Nirmul Committee observed 36th anniversary of the 'Dark Night of Genocide' on 25th March night at Central Shahid Minar. Pakistan army's crackdown on civilian population of Bangladesh started on 25 March 1971, which was followed by the declaration of Independence by Bangabondhu Sheikh Majibur Rahman. On this dark night of '71, 60,000 unarmed civilian were killed only in the city of Dhaka, which include university teachers, students, police and members of East Pakistan Rifles.
The discussion program was presided over by Air Vice Marshal (retd.) A K Khandakar Biruttam, former air chief and deputy cheif of the Muktibahini and Advisor of Nirmul Committee. It was addressed by Maj. General (retd.) K M Shafiullah Biruttam former army chief and Commander of the 'S' Forces of the liberation war, Major (retd.) Rafiqul Islam Biruttam, former home minister and Commander of sector 1 of the liberation war, Lt. Col. (retd.) Abu Osman Chowdhury, Commander of the sector 8, Abdur Razzak Commander of Mujib Bahini and presidium member of Awami League, Suranjeet Sen Gupta, presidium member of ALg, Rashed Khan Menon, President of Workers' Party, Monjurul Ahsan Khan, president of CPB, Hasanul Haq Inu, President of JSD, Barrister Amirul Islam of Mujibnagar Govt., Sayaeda Zohra Tajuddin, wife of the first Prime minister Tajuddin Ahmed, General (retd.) Mustafizur Rahman Birbikram, former army cheif, Lt. General (retd.) M Harun-ar-Rashid Birpratik, former army chief, Protiti Devi, daughter in-law of Shahid Dhirendranath Dutta language movement veteran, Lt. Col. (retd.) Shawkat Ali, Chairman Muktijoddha Sanghati Parishad, Abdul Ahad Chowdhury Chairman Muktijoddha Sangsad, freedom fighter Prof. Ajoy Roy, human rights activist Advocate Sultana Kamal, former advisor of the caretaker govt., freedom fighter Advocate Siril Sikder, former ambassador and presidium member of Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council, freedom fighter Nasiruddin Yousuf, President of Sammilito Sangskritik Jote, Educationist Shamoly Nasrin Chowdhury, widow of shahid Dr. Alim Chowdhury, Sculptor Ferdousi Priobhashini, a rape victim of '71, journalist Shahin Reza Noor, President of Projonmo '71 and son of Shahid journalist Serajuddin Hossain, actress Shomi Kaiser, daughter of Shahid writer journalist Shahidulla Kaiser, journalist Anal Raihan, son of Shahid film maker Zahir Raihan, freedom fighter painter Abul Bark Alvi, Garo freedom fighter Bhadra Mrong, non-Bengali freedom fighter Mamtaj Khan Pathan, freedom fighter architect Yafez Osman and cultural activist Shaon Mahmood, daughter of Shahid Altaf Mahmood. The program was conducted by freedom fighter writer journalist Shahriar Kabir, Acting President of Nirmul Committee.
The speakers of the discussion program demanded trial of war criminals of Bangladesh liberation war and asked the govt. to impose ban on religion based political parties like Jamat-e Islami, those appeared as threat for secular democracy. Air vice Marshal (retd.) AK Khandaker asked the caretaker govt. to include an agenda to address Islamic militancy and terrorism at the SAARC Summit to be held in April.
The veteran freedom fighters and family members of martyrs of '71 lighted 36 torch to mark the 36 anniversary of the liberation day, which followed by a candle light procession that started from central Shah ended at the killing field of Jagannath Hall of Dhaka University. Pakistan army killed several hundred students, teachers and university staffs and buried them in the ground of Jagannath Hall on 26 March of 1971. More than three thousand freedom fighters and members of the Shahid family including students of Dhaka University joined the procession.
Civil Society leaders asked Awami League to cancel 5 point agreement
Leaders of the civil society and secular political parties asked the Caretaker Government to arrest the godfathers of the Islamic militants in order to ensure a free, fair and peaceful election. While addressing the 83rd annual conference of Ahmadia Muslims of Bangladesh held in Dhaka on 10 February (2006) the leaders also called Awami League high Command to cancel 5 point agreement signed recently between Awami League and Khilafat Majlish.
Presided over by Mahmudul Hasan Siraji, Amir of Ahmadia Jamat of Chittagong the conference was addressed by Nirmul Committee leaders Prof. Kabir Chowdhury, Justice KM Sobhan, writer journalist Shahriar Kabir, Workers Party President Rashed Khan Menon, JSD President Hasanul Haq Inu, exclutive President of JSD Moinuddin Khan Badal, Prof. AAMS Arefin Siddique, Prof. Syed Anwara Hossain, Prof. Shawkatara Hossain, Father Benjamin Costa and different faith leaders.
Iftekhar Ahmed Aiyas, Consul General of Tuvalu, presented the keynote paper at the discussion. He said blasphemy law is the most repugnant and loathsome act that touches the sensitivities of all decent-minded people.
Aiyas, also former Amir of UK Ahimadiya Muslim Jamaat, alleged that blasphemy laws are being used everyday (in many countries) to persecute the members of Ahmadiyya community.
"There is a propaganda against Ahmadiyas of disrespecting prophet Hazrat Muhammad, but it's a wrong idea... Ahmadiyas give Hazrat Muhammad the highest place", he said.
Justice KM Sobhan said the 1971 genocide was committed using the name of Islam but it was resisted with the united efforts of all.
"No one could be pious by only following religious rules... forgiveness and love are also essential for being pious", Prof. Kabir Chowdhury told the meeting.
Addressing the conference Shahriar Kabir asked the government to arrest those Jamat and IOJ leaders known as the godfathers of Islamic militants. He said, arrested militant leaders already disclosed their link with Jamat and IOJ leaders. Without Jamat's help it was not possible for those militants to set up such wide network at home and abroad. Criticizing Awami League's 5 point agreement with fundamentalist Khelfat Majlish Shahriar Kabir said, secular democratic forces of Bangladesh can not tolerate any move, which will encourage Fatwa, create ground for Blasphemy Law and religion based politics.
JSD President Hasanul Huq Inu, also a 14-party alliance leader, said the 5-point agreement between Awami League (AL) and Khelafat Majlish needs to be scrapped as he said it would destroy the country's communal harmony.
"I'm against the AL's 5-point deal as I think this agreement will destroy the communal harmony in Bangladesh and split the nation", Inu told a discussion meeting in the city.
The discussion titled 'Blasphemy Law and Teachings of Islam' was organised by Ahmadiya Muslim Jamaat marking its 83trd Salana Jalsa at its Bakshi Bazar central office.
Inu said he would try his best to prevent AL from implementing the 5-point deal if the alliance comes to power and his party remains its ally.
He took a swipe at Jamaat-e-Islami saying. "This party is the enemy of this country, its people, independence, constitution and democracy", and urged the people to unitedly resist this fundamentalist party.
Addressing the meeting, Workers' Party President Rashed Khan Menon said any blasphemy law would be create trouble for the members of every community, not only the Ahmadiya.
"We're against any blasphemy law and will continue our struggle against such move", he said promising to build Bangladesh as a country where there will be no violation of human rights.
Ahmadia leaders from India, Pakistan, UK, Germany and different African countries attended the 3 day long conference.
Nirmul Committee observed 15 th founding Anniversary
Nirmul Committee Leaders asked the Caretaker Government to arrest Islamic militants, their godfathers, listed terrorists in order to curb terrorism. While addressing a discussion program held at WVA auditorium of Dhanmondi, Dhaka on 19 January 2007 the Nirmul Committee leaders said Caretaker Govt. must prove its neutrality by arresting those who are responsible for killing hundreds of citizens including secular University Teachers, Journalists, Judges, Lawyers, Politicians, Members of the Minority Religious & Ethnic community, otherwise it won't be possible to hold next election at a peaceful atmosphere, at the same time rule of Law won't be establish in the country. They also asked the Caretaker Govt. to stop distribution of distorted constitution, text books and documents of Liberation War published during the tenure of Khaleda-Nizami FPA Govt.
Chaired By Professor Kabir Chowdhury the discussion program was organized to mark 15th founding anniversary of Ekattorer Ghatak Dalal Nirmul Committee (Forum for Secular Bangladesh). Writer Journalist Shahriar Kabir, Acting President of Nirmul Committee presented the keynote speech titled '15 Years of Nirmul Committee : Achievements and Expectation'. He said Nirmul Committee led by mother of martyr and famous writer Jahanara Imam started the largest civil society movement in Bangladesh demanding trial of war criminals of the Liberation War of 1971 and to ban fundamentalist & communal politics of Jamate Islami that committed war crimes and genocide in the name of Islam. During the last 15 years this movement has spread at the grassroots level at home and also created an impact on Bangladeshi living in abroad. Initially no body paid any attention to the just demands of Nirmul Committee's movement but now International Communities also recognized it. In April 2005 European Parliament mentioned about the necessity of trial of the war criminals in a resolution on Bangladesh. It was also discussed in the sessions of House of Lords of British Parliament and many International conferences on Bangladesh and even US department of Justice is now investigating on war crimes of Bangladesh committed during the Liberation War of 1971.
Shahriar Kabir further said, at home we have started a library movement to build up a secular democratic country and during the last 12 years has set up 80 libraries, mostly in the remote areas those are known to be strong hold of Jamate Islami and other fundamentalist parties. In order to build up a civil society movement against fundamentalism and communalism through education and cultural enlightenment this library movement is highly appreciated at home and abroad. To support the library movement Nirmul Committee is publishing bi-monthly 'Jagaran'. During the last 15 years Nirmul Committee published hundreds of leaflets, posters, booklets, books and organized seminars, public meetings, workshops, conferences, rallies in and outside the Capital. At present Nirmul Committee have 8 chapters in North America, Europe and Australia.
Professor Kabir Chowdhury in his presidential address said, Nirmul Committee's achievements can not be denied but we have to go a long way and continue this movement generation after generation in order to uphold the spirit of the Liberation War, which is secular democracy. He said, political parties have always ignored the rose of fundamentalism and communalism and were not serious to try the war criminals. The largest secular Democratic Party like Awami League recently signed an agreement with Khelafat Majlish, a fundamentalist party linked with Al Qaida. This five point agreement is aimed to legalize 'Fatwa' and introduce 'Blasphemy' act that we can't approve, because such move will destroy the secular humane fabric of our society. Professor Kabir Chowdhury asked the Caretaker Govt. to take strong action against the Islamic militants and their godfathers belong to BNP, JI and IOJ.
Advocate Sultana Kamal, former Advisor of the Caretaker Govt. who resigned just last month said, even Caretaker Govt. can start investigation into war crimes of Jamati leaders those are active in our policy. War criminals and godfathers of Islamic militants should not be allowed to take part in the election.
Among other Justice K M Sobhan, Journalist Kamal Lohani, Poet Syed Shamsul Hoq, Justic Mohammad Golam Rabbini, Professor Muntassir Mamoon, Barrister Sara Hussain addressed the discussion program. Kazi Mukul, General Secretary of Nirmul Committee was act as the stringer.
Nirmul Committees support for the victims of Communal Persecution
Persecution on religious minorities has already started in Bangladesh as national election is near by. Last November (06) Nirmul Committee recorded 96 incidents of minority persecution, disclosed at a press conference held on 8 December 2006 at National Press Club Dhaka.
Human rights defenders Shahriar Kabir and Shamoly Nasreen Chowdhury, the acting president & vice president of Nirmul Committee addressed the press conference jointly organized by 'Human Rights Congress for Bangladesh Minorities' and 'Global Human Rights Defence'. The organizers presented a family of the victims at the press conference.
Rape victim Nidrarani (15) and her mother Chanchalarani narrated the dreadful incident occurred on 11 November 2006. Nidrarani was gang raped by local gangstars of BNP, all family members were beaten severely, their house was looted then they were driven from ancestral home of Kishorjanj. Though they filed a case at Karimganj PS no culprit was arrested so for. This family is completely ruined, no place to stay or no money to buy food and clothes.
Nirmul Committee paid Taka ten thousand to Chanchalarani to meet their immediate need and assured further support in order to set up any income generating business.
While addressing the press conference Shahriar Kabir said, this time human rights bodies are apprehending much more torture and intimidation on the religious minorities than 2001. He also urged caretaker govt. to take immediate action against the perpetrators of communal persecution.
Nirmul Committee's month long program to mark 35 anniversary of the victory of the liberation war of Bangladesh
A discussion program on the history of liberation War followed by film show was held in Dhaka on 10 December 2006, organized by Nirmul Committee (Forum for Secular Bangladesh). Theme of the discussion was 'contribution of India and other allied countries during the liberation war of Bangladesh'. Eminent writer, journalist Shahriar Kabir, acting President of NC presented the keynote paper.
Chaired by Prof. Kabir Chowdhury the chief guest of the program was Air Vice Marshal (retd.) A K Khandakar Biruttam, Deputy Chief of the Liberation forces of Bangladesh & former air chief. Among others the discussion program was addressed by Maj. General (retd.) KM Shafiullah Biruttam, former army chief & Commander of the 'S' Forces of the liberation war, Maj. General (retd.) C R Dutta Biruttam, commander of the Sector 4, President Hindu-Buddhist-Christian Unity Council, Maj (retd.) Rafiqul Islam Biruttam, Commander of the Sector 1 & former Home Minister, Col. (retd.) Abu Osman Chowdhury, commander of the Sector 8, Abdur Razzak, commander of Mujib Bahini & Presideium Member of Awami League, Sculptor Ferdousi Priobhashini, representative of the rape victims of the liberation war & Vice President of NC and Educationist Shamoly Nasrin Chowdhury, representative of the martyrs' families of the liberation war.
Shahriar Kabir in his Keynote speech expressed deep gratitude to the govt. of India led by Prime Minister Gandhi, Indian armed forces of the India-Bangladesh joint command and people of India for their all out support during the liberation war of Bangladesh that has no parallel history. He said, more than 20 thousand members of the Indian armed forces and civilian sacrificed their lives to liberate Bangladesh from the brutal occupation forces of Pakistani army junta. 3 million Bengali sacrificed their lives, more than quarter million women were raped and 10 million Bengalis took shelter in India to safe their lives. Shahriar Kabir further said, during the last 35 years all successive governments of Bangladesh failed to acknowledge Indias contribution either intentionally or unintentionally and new generation was not allowed to know the real history of the liberation war.
Prof. Kabir Chowdhury said, friendship between India and Bangladesh that based on the sacrifice of 3 million people of Bangladesh and respect for secular-democracy is imperishable. The enemies of the liberation war, collaborators of Pakistani army junta trying hard to create enmity between two countries, engaged in continuous hate campaign against India. Freedom loving people of Bangladesh will not tolerate such activities of the anti liberation forces.
Air Vice Marshal (retd.) AK Khandakar Biruttam recalled his memories with Gen. Aurora and other defense personals of Indian armed forces during the liberation war and said, Indian armed forces of joint command acted like our own brothers. They not only helped us to win the war, also took part in building up roads, bridges and other communication system that destroyed by the occupation forces of Pakistan. He paid rich tribute to Gen. Aurora and the martyrs of the Indian armed forces. He also recalled Mrs. Indira Gandhi's outstanding contribution to the liberation war of Bangladesh. It was mainly because of her bold diplomatic steps Pakistani army junta didn't dare to try Sheikh Mujibur Rahman for the charge of treason.
Other speakers also paid rich tribute to the Govt. of India led by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, Indian armed forces and people of India for their multi-dimensional support during the liberation war of Bangladesh.
The discussion program was anchored by Kazi Mukul, General Secretary of Nirmul Committee.
Two documentary films were shown as a part of the celebration of 35 anniversary of victory. One is an outstanding documentary directed by famous Indian film maker Shukhdev titled 'Nine Months to Freedom', on the liberation war of Bangladesh. The other one is 'SOS' made by Shahriar Kabir, on recent persecution of the religious minorities in Bangladesh. These two films are shown in most of the districts as a part of NC's Victory Day celebration. The celebration of 35 anniversary of victory organized by Nirmul Committee started from Chittagong on 1 December 2006.
A 64 page booklet titled 'Contribution of India and other allied countries during the liberation war of Bangladesh' was published to mark the event.
Launch united movement to restore '72 constitution Architects of constitution accorded reception
Staff Correspondent, The daily Star, 5 November, 2006Speakers at a discussion yesterday called on all to launch a united movement to restore the constitution of 1972 in order to establish the sovereignty of the people.
The objective of the '72 constitution was to achieve total empowerment of common people, they said. They also called on all to forge a united movement with the spirit of the War of Liberation to build a prosperous Bangladesh.
Forum for Secular Bangladesh organised the discussion on 'Constitution of 1972 is a unique document of world peace and humanity' at the Supreme Court Bar Association auditorium in the city on the occasion of the 35th Constitution Day. The Forum also accorded a reception to the architects of the 1972 Constitution at the programme. They are eminent jurist Dr Kamal Hossain, Barrister Amir-ul Islam, Advocate Abdur Rahim, Suranjit Sengupta and Prof Abu Sayeed.
There were 34 members on the committee to draft the constitution. But only nine members are alive today. Speaking at the programme, Dr Kamal Hossain said the objective of the '72 constitution was to establish such a state where people would be able to play their role as the owners of sovereign power.
Awami League presidium member Suranjit Sengupta said that once the people's sovereignty is established, all the evil forces that rule the country through the use of only coercive powers would be eliminated. Prof Kabir Chowdhury chaired the programme while Air Vice-Marshal (Retd.) AK Khandaker, Barrister Shafiq Ahmed, AL presidium members Abdur Razzak and Zohra Tajuddin, and Forum President Shahriar Kabir also spoke.
The daily Janakantha
Meeting on the occasion 12th death anniversary of Shahid Janani Jahanara Imam
hosted by Ekattorer Ghatok Dalal Nirmul Committee Dhaka, BangladeshSpeakers in a meeting on the occasion 12th death anniversary of Shahid Janani Jahanara Imam hosted by Ekattorer Ghatok Dalal Nirmul Committee, expressed their concern on the dissemination of communalism in Bangladesh. They urged the need for the re-establishment of the constitution of 1972 to eradicate the communal politics from Bangladesh. There are no other alternative to this to save Bangladesh and the Bengali nation.
Central combined citizens' movement has staged a conference on August 2nd in Engineer's institute in Dhaka. Representative form all over the country took part in the conference and discussed various issues regarding the current 'grave' situation of the country. 11 points program has been adopted to enhance a country wide greater movement.
In the day long conference, representative of more than hundreds of different social and non-political organizations, intellectuals and also representative of the civil society were present. National professor Kabir Chowdhury presided over the meeting. Also spoke in the meeting co-fighter of Master da Surja Sen and veteran revolutionary Binod Bihari Chowdhury, Retired Air vice Marshal and second command in charge in the independence war A K Khandekar, Justice K M Sobhan, Sector Commander and Commander of S force Retired Mejor General K M Shafiullah, Former Vice Chancellor of the Dhaka University A K Azad Chowdhury, General Secretary of the United citizen's movement and ADAB president Kazi Faruq Ahmed, Ex president of the teacher's forum of the University of Dhaka Arefin Siddique, Writer of the draft of the proclamation of Independence and eminent lawyer Barrister Amirul Islam, Promod Mankin MP, President of the central command council of Muktijoddha Sangsad Abdul Ahad Chowdhury, Ramendu Majumdar, Asaduzzaman Noor MP, Journalists Iqbal Sobhan Chowdhury, Novelist Selina Hossen, Nasiruddin Yousuf, General secretary of Ekattorer Ghatok Dalal Nirmul Committee Kazi Mukul, Shirin Akhter and many others. In the conference the 11 points program was declared by the acting president of Ekattorer Ghatok Dalal Nirmul Committee Writer-Columnist-Journalist Shariar Kabir.
Professor Kabir Chowdhury has said, the communal 4 party alliance has finalized all the blue print preparation to come back to power through conspiracy. Though the job of the police forces is to secure people's right, their insincere attitudes and uncivilized behavior toward masses know no bound. Khaleda Zia will have to face with trial for all of her unscrupulous actions and mistreatment toward the innocent people of this country.
The veteran revolutionary Binod Bihari Chowdhury said, he would like to live 110 years to create a secular and modern Bangladesh. He poses question, 'after the declaration of Islam as state religion in Bangladesh can Hindus claim themselves to be the citizen of this country.' He also added that, "I am the son of this soil, I love Bangladesh. He emphasized the need for congregating into a common platform to fight another freedom struggle to establish the spirit of 71 in this country.
Justice K M Sobhan has said that the administration has turned into a den of corrupted people. Corruption is being expanded more and more in the name eradication. Steps taken to curb corruptions are noting but mockery.
Source: The daily Janakantha, 26 July, 2006
Shahriar Kabir's Kazan Visit
Update on 13 juli, 2006
Eminent writer, journalist, filmmaker and human rights defender Shahriar Kabir went to Kazan for a fortnight tour on 20 June '06 to shoot his forthcoming documentary on Tatarstan, based on his book 'Notes from Kazan'. In this documentary Shahriar Kabir is going to highlight interfaith harmony in Tatarstan and 'Jadidism', a liberal, secular interpretation of Islam adopted by Muslim Tatar theologists in 19th century.
There are nearly hundred ethnic and religious communities in Tatarstan who are living with peace and amity for more than thousand years. Shahriar Kabir recorded views of different faith leaders, politicians, intellectuals, youth and common people on interfaith relation in Tatarstan.
During this tour he has done 70% shooting, planning to complete by next September. This tri-lingual film (Bengali, English and Russian) will be completed by February '07.
During this tour Shahriar Kabir met Ms. Zilia Valieva, Deputy Prime Minister of Tatarstan and Dr. Raphael Khakimov, advisor to the President of the Republic Mintimer Shaimiev, who is an expert on 'Jadidism'. Shahriar Kabir is expected to meet the President and the Prime Minister during his next visit to Tatarstan scheduled in first half of September '06. Shahriar Kabir first visited Kazan in May 2004, later wrote a book, which was the first of its kind in Bengal
'Fundamentalists use Rohinga refugees for evil designs'
Source: The daily Star, 11 June, 2006Military regime in Myanmar is a threat to regional security in south and south-east Asia as its refugees, who took shelter in neighbouring countries to get rid of the regime's oppression, are being used by the fundamentalist forces to achieve their evil designs, said the speakers at a discussion yesterday.
The discussion titled 'Free Aung San Suu Kyi' was organised by South Asian Peoples' Union Against Fundamentalism and Communalism at Bangladesh Institute of Law and International Affairs (Bilia) auditorium in the city.
The speakers said under the military rule, the people of Myanmar are now subjected to worst political repression and their basic human rights are violated nakedly.
They urged the people of Bangladesh to extend moral support to their Myanmar brethren in restoring democracy for which Bangladeshis had fought against anti-democratic and fundamentalist forces.The speakers also expressed solidarity with the struggling people of Myanmar.
Union General Secretary Shahrier Kabir in his keynote paper said there are 2.5 lakh Rohinga refugees at present in Bangladesh and they are being used by Jamaat-e-Islami for its evil purposes.
Hamida Hossain of Ain O Salish Kendro criticised the role of international community for not being vocal in restoring democracy in Myanmar.
Underscoring the need for democracy in Myanmar, Justice Golam Rabbani said even the worst form of democracy is better than the most benevolent type of military rule.Citing common experience of both Bangladesh and Myanmar people in the movements against British colonial rule, Union President Kabir Chowdhury called for active role in the ongoing movement for democracy in Myanmar.
Communist Party of Bangladesh President Manjurul Ahsan Khan, Jatiya Samajtantrik Dal President Hasanul Huq Inu, Justice K M Sobhan and Waliur Rahman of Bilia also spoke on the occasion.
Source: The daily Vorer Kagoj, 7 May, 2006
Source: The Daily Vorer Kagoj, 29 April, 2006
Source: The daily Janakantha, 29th April, 2006
Source: The daily Prothom Alo, 29 April, 2006
Syadpur Library paid rich tribute to the martyrs of '71
Muktijuddher Shahid Smriti Pathagar (Liberation War Martyrs' Memorial Library) of Syadpur paid rich tribute to the martyrs of 12 April '71. On that very day more than 200 political activists and intellectuals of Syadpur, including local MP Dr. Zikrul Haque were brutally killed by the Pakistani occupation army. Syadpur library and other socio-cultural organizations arranged day long program to mark the event.
A discussion program was arranged in the afternoon at railway auditorium by MSSP of Syadpur, which was mainly addressed by the family members of the martyrs, eye witness and victims of torture. Presided over the freedom fighter Shahjahan Sarder, the president of the Syadpur library, writer journalist Shahriar Kabir was the chief guest while Kazi Mukul, chief co-ordinator of the library project was the special guest of the discussion program.
The war victims narrated the holocaust of '71 and sufferings of following days that yet to end. Most of the war victims are suffering from tremendous financial crisis and hardly received any support from subsequent govt.
Shahriar Kabir, acting president of Nirmul Committee and director of the library project said that day will come when all war criminals shall be tried and punished for committing genocide in Bangladesh during nine month long liberation war of '71. The demand for the trial of war criminals of '71 gradually drawing attention even in the international arena, he added.
Kazi Mukul general secretary of Nirmul Committee said, because of Nirmul Committee's movement the alliance of 14 party led by Awami League agreed to try the war criminals, which was included in their 23 point program. He also assured to help destitute family members of the martyrs.
Nirmul Committee's rally at Central Shahid Minar and candle light procession to mark 35 anniversary of the liberation
Nirmul Committee arranged a public rally in front of Central Shahid Minar on 25 March '06 to mark the 35 anniversary of the liberation day, which was followed by a procession with candle light ended at the killing field of Jagannath Hall. On the dreadful night of 25 March 1971 several hundred teachers, students and staffs of Dhaka University were killed brutally by the Pakistani army and buried at the courtyard of students' hostel named Jagannath Hall.
Prior to the candle light procession a discussion program was arranged at Shahid Minar, which was addressed by veteran freedom fighters and family members of the Martyrs. The speakers expressed strong determination for trial of the war criminals and asked Govt. to remove Nizami and Mujahid, two war criminal ministers from the cabinet and ban all militant organizations. Presided over by Prof. Kabir Chowdhury, President of the advisory board of Nirmul Committee and brother of Martyr Prof. Munir Chowdhury the rally was attended by at least four thousand freedom fighters, family members of the Martyrs, young activists of Nirmul Committee and students of Dhaka University.
35 veteran freedom fighters and members of martyrs' family lighted 35 torches to mark the 35 anniversary of liberation. The torch-bearers are Air Vice Marshal (retd.) A K Khandakar Biruttam, Deputy Chief of the Liberation War and former air chief, Major General (retd.) KM Shafiullah Biruttam, Commander of the 'S' Force of the Liberation War and former army chief, Mrs. Zohra Tajuddin, wife of slain Awami League leader Tajuddin Ahmed, first Prime Minister of Govt. of Bangladesh that led the Liberation War, Presidium member of Awami League and leader of 'Mujib Bahini' of the Liberation War Abdur Razzak MP, President of Workers' Party Rashed Khan Menon, Presidium member of Gana Forum Pankaj Bhattacharya, Chairman of the Muktijoddha Sangshad Abdul Ahad Chowdhury, Commander of the Crack Platoon of Liberation War Mofazzal Hossain Chowdhury Maya Birbikram, Freedom Fighter and President of Sammilito Sangskritik Jote Nasiruddin Yousuf, President of Bangladesh Adivasi Forum Freedom Fighter Advocate Promode Mankin MP, General Secretary of Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council freedom fighter Prof. Nimchandra Bhoumik, Freedom Fighter Capt. (retd.) Mahboob Uddin Ahmed Birbikram, Freedom Fighter Major (retd.) Shamsul Arefeen, Freedom Fighter Habibul Alam Birpratik, Daughter-in-law of Martyr language movement veteran Dhirendra Nath Dutta Protiti Devi, Wife of Martyr Journalist Sirajuddin Hossain Nurjahan Siraji, Wife of Martyr Dr. Alim Chowdhury Shamoly Nasreen Chowdhury, President of Projonmo Ekattor (Generation 71) Journalist Shahin Reza Noor, wife of Martyr Dr. Azhrul Haque Salma Haque, War victim Sculptor Ferdousi Priobhashini, Daughter of Martyr Prof. Jotirmoy Guha Thakurata Prof. Meghna Guha Thakurata, Son of Martyr Filmmaker Zahir Raihan Journalist Anal Raihan, Freedom Fighter Journalist Haroon Habib, Freedom Fighter & Trustee of Liberation War Museum Ziauddin Tarek Ali, Freedom Fighter Dr. Kazi Tamanna, Freedom Fighter Prof. Mahfuza Khanam, Freedom Fighter Masud Sadak Chullu, Tribal Freedom Fighter Bhadra Mrong, Daughter of Martyr Music composer Altaf Mahmood Shaon Mahmood, son of Martyr Muhamad Salimullah Singer Sadi Mohammad, Freedom Fighter Painter Sayeeda Kamal, Son of Martyr Mudhusudon Dey Adhir Chandra Dey, Freedom Fighter former Asst. General Secretary of Commonwelth Prof. Khan Sarwar Murshid and Son of Martyr poet Selina Parvin Suman Jahid.
Writer Journalist Shahriar Kabir, acting president of Nirmul Committee conducted the event.
Ban all militant outfits Demands South Asian People's Union
Staff Correspondent
The daily Star, Tue. March 14, 2006South Asian People's Union against Fundamentalism and Communalism yesterday demanded a ban on all militant Islamist organisations, including Hizbut Tahrir, for their involvement in jihadi activities.
Although the alliance government has banned four militant outfits, several dozens of such organisations have been carrying out their activities in public or covertly, which have called into question the crackdown on militants by the government, said the Union President Prof Kabir Chowdhury and General Secretary Shahriar Kabir in a joint statement.The government's drive against militancy will be reduced to a farce if other militant outfits, including Hizbut Tahrir, are not banned immediately, they said.
They said the Hizbut Tahrir that claims to maintain extensive international network has been continuing its campaign in public for establishing the rule of Islam.
Most of the countries in the Central Asia and the Middle East have banned the Hizbut Tahrir for its terrorist activities, they said, adding that even Pakistan banned it in 2003.
The Union also called on the government to grill the patrons of militancy, including ministers, lawmakers and government officials whose names were mentioned by the arrested militants.
At the same time, it demanded formation of an international inquiry committee to unearth information regarding the international network linked to Bangladeshi militants.
A consortium comprising Pakistan, Afghanistan, India, Bangladesh and Myanmar should also be formed to curb militant activities in the region, the Union leaders suggested.
Doctor's Prescription
Shahriar not spared from appearing before court
Bdnews, Dhaka, Mon. January 02, 2006Despite submitting doctor's prescription eminent writer and columnist Shahriar Kabir was not spared from appearing before the court yesterday.
A petition along with doctor's prescription on behalf of Shahriar Kabir, also an organiser of the Ekatturer Ghatak Dalal Nirmul Committee (Committee to Eliminate Collaborators of 1971), was submitted to the courts of two metropolitan magistrates to spare him from appearing before the courts in person in two separate sedition charges.Prescriptions of the Orthopaedic Hospital where he was under treatment following a road accident in Nilphamari were submitted along with the petition to the courts.
After hearing metropolitan magistrates Abdur Rouf Khan and MA Salam rejected the petitions.
Shahriar Kabir was arrested under Section 54 on November 22, 2002 from the Zia International Airport along with video cassettes containing pictures of persecution on the minority community in Bangladesh, CDs, and cameras.Later, a case was filed against him with the Airport Police Station on sedition charge.
He was also shown arrested on December 12 in a sedition case filed with the Motijheel Police Station against two foreign journalists. He was taken on remand several times in the case.
Later, the metropolitan magistrate conducted a judicial enquiry into the video and audiocassettes.
UK minister worried over Bangladesh's HR situation
Ansar Ahmed Ullah, from London
The daily Star, Sun. January 15, 2006British Minister of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) Dr Kim Howells expressed concern that the human rights situation in Bangladesh appears to be deteriorating.
Howells, while responding to a question by Jeremy Corbyn MP at the British Houses of Parliament on January 9 of FCO's latest assessment of human rights in Bangladesh, also expressed concern over the failure to bring the perpetrators of British High Commissioner to Bangladesh Anwar Chowdhury to justice.
"The human rights situation in Bangladesh is not good and appears to be deteriorating. We have serious concerns about reports of extra-judicial killings and torture by the Rapid Action Battalion and the civilian police. The persecution of religious and ethnic minorities, including the Ahmadiyyas, Hindus and Christians and indigenous groups is also a serious issue," Howells said.
"We also have ongoing concerns about use of the death penalty and legal and penal systems that do not have the appropriate probity or capacity and about the safeguarding of women's and children's rights along with those of the disabled and other vulnerable groups," he added.
On his Bangladesh visit last November, Howells underlined UK's commitment to support human rights in Bangladesh during discussions with senior government representatives, human rights campaigners and representatives of religious and ethnic minorities, he said.
On the security of high commission staff following the attempt on the life of Anwar Chowdhury, Howells said, 'The security of staff is a top priority and the Foreign and Commonwealth Office makes every effort to manage the risk and fulfil its duty of care to all its staff world-wide. Since the grenade attack in Sylhet in May 2004 [on] the British high commissioner...we have taken every available opportunity to stress to the Government of Bangladesh the importance of bringing the perpetrators to justice, not least for the relatives of those who tragically died."
Howells, who is also responsible for South Asia including Bangladesh and counter terrorism, said it is obviously vital for the Government of Bangladesh to conclude credible investigations into this, and other attacks, as soon as possible. "Most recently, during my visit to Bangladesh in November 2005, I spoke to senior members of the Government of Bangladesh about our concern at the failure so far to bring the perpetrators to justice"
Meantime, Lord Avebury, vice chair of UK Parliamentary Human Rights group, has requested the Bangladesh high commissioner in the UK for a meeting with British parliamentarians at House of Commons to discuss the present crisis and the forthcoming general election.
Civil Society leaders visited Jotindranagar of Satkhira District,
an Ahmadia village attacked by fundamentalist bigotsLeaders of ‘South Asian People’s Union against Fundamentalism & Communalism’ and ‘Ekattorer Ghatak Dalal Nirmul Committee’ headed by Justice KM Sobhan visited Jotindranagar in Shyamnagar Upazila, 65 km from Satkhira town on 26 May (2005) where fundamentalist zealots of International Khatme Nabuwat Movement Bangladesh attacked Ahmadias on April 17 leaving more that 50 people including women and children injured.
Justice Sobhan was accompanied by among with other former diplomat Mohiuddin Ahmed, General Secretary of NC Kazi Mukul. The victims of Ahmadia community of Jatindranagar narrated the atrocities perpetrated by the religious bigods of IKNMB. Later the civil society leaders addressed a public rally at Abdur Razzak Park in Satkhira town.
The rally was organized by ‘Samprodaik Sampriti Rakkha Committee’ (communal harmony protection committee), a sister organization of Nirmul Committee. Speakers at the rally called upon all pro-liberation forces to unitedly resist anti-Ahmadia bigods in the country. They also pledged all support to Ahmadias to undo the Zealots’ activities against them.
The main speaker of the rally Justice KM Sobhan said repeated attacks on members of the Ahmadia community in different areas of country are also a severe blow to pro-liberation forces. Islamic bigots have now become very active and they are sheltered by the present government.
Former foreign secretary Mohiuddin Ahmed, Nirmul Committee General Secretary Kazi Mukul, freedom fighter Tarek Ali and Local leaders of different political parties and socio-cultural organization also addressed the rally.
Press conference on attack on Ahmadia Muslim community in SatkhiraLeaders of ‘South Asian People’s Union against Fundamentalism & Communalism’ addressed a press conference on attack on Ahmadia Muslim in Shatkhira at Dhaka on 29 May 2005. Justice KM Sobhan, former diplomat Mohiuddin Ahmed and NC General Secretary Kazi Mukul addressed the press conference chaired by Professor Kabir Chowdhury, president of SAPUAFAC. They deplored Sathkira district administration’s failure to act against religious bigods for attacking the Ahmadias in Jatindranagar on 17 April 2005. The Local administration has yet to take any measures to arrest the culprits though more than a month has passed since the assault on the sect.
Zealots led by Khatme Nabuwat injured 50 Ahmadiyyas and looted at least 10 houses at Jyotindranagar of Shyamnagar upazila on April 17.
So far two cases had been filed accusing a number of International Khatme Nabuwat Movement, Bangladesh (IKNMB) operatives of carrying out the violence, but Satkhira police remain indifferent to rounding them up.
On visiting the Ahmadias in Jitindranagar, a SAPUFC team headed by Justice KM Sobhan revealed the information at a press conference at National Press Club in the capital yesterday.
“We have learnt from the locals that the prime accused Mufti Nurani still keeps contact with the local administration. He even extorts money from the people of Shyamnagar to meet the expenses of fighting the case field against him,” KM Sobhan said, reading out a report on the team’s visit to the affected area.
SAPUFC representatives said that Khatme Nabuwat leaders have ordered the people (of Shyamnagar) not to help the Ahmadias and said that anybody who would disobey the ‘dictate’, will become a ‘Kafir’ (infidel).
In Khulna town, IKNMB leaders are asking the rickshaw-pullers not to carry any Ahmadia passengers. Besides, they are urging the local shopkeepers not to sell anything to the Ahmadias, KM Sobhan added.
“The Ahmadia community there compare the April 17 attack on them with the acts of genocide carried out by the Pakistani army during the Liberation War in 1971,” the report said.
“Declaring the Ahmadia non-Muslim, Pakistan could not establish peace, rather the country is now torn apart by bloody Shia-Sunni strife,” former diplomat Mohiuddin Ahmed said.
Professor Kabir Chowdhury addressing the press conference called on the people to wage a vigorous campaign to restore the constitution of 1972.
80th birth anniversary of noted litterateur Sardar Fazlul Karim
‘South Asian People’s Union against Fundamentalism & Communalism’, ‘MSSK Trust’, ‘Nirmul Committee’ and several other socio-cultural organizations jointly arranged a grand reception ceremony to celebrate 80th birth anniversary of legendary social scientist and literature Sardar Fazlul Karim at TSC on 12 May 2005.
Earlier a committee of 101 eminent writers, artists and intellectuals was formed headed by poet Shamsur Rahman to observe Sardar Fazlul Karim’s 80th birth anniversary.
Sardar Fazlul Karim, a brilliant student of Dhaka University joined communist movement in early forties, later joined DU as a lecturer at dept. of political science. In late forties he resigned from DU and became a full time party activist. He was arrested in 1949, remained several years behind the bar. In 1954 he was elected a member of Provincial Assembly from the jail, nominated by United Front. Later he again joined Dhaka University and continued teaching till his retirement.
Sardar Fazlul Karim wrote several books on social science and philosophy and also translated the classics written by Plato, Aristotle, Angles etc.
To mark his 80th birth anniversary hundreds of people from different walks of life including eminent intellectuals and political party leaders gathered in TSC. Presided over by Hena Das, presidium member of ‘South Asian People’s Union Against Fundamentalism and Communalism’, the reception programme was conducted by Prof. MM Akash. Prof. Kabir Chowdhury, Prof. Serajul Islam Chowdhury, Adv. Gaziul Haque, Prof. Borhanuddin Khan Jahangir, Prof. Zillur Rahman Siddique addressed the function.
Several socio-cultural organizations and different political parties including Awami League, CPB, Worker’s Party, JSD presented bouquet and books to Sardar Fazlul Karim
Bomb attacks in Bangladesh
Motion for resolutions on Bangladesh taken by European Parliament
Doc.: B6-0252/2005, B6-0256/2005, B6-0265/2005, B6-0266/2005, B6-0268/2005, B6-0270/2005 (Click to see the links)
Vote : 14.04.2005By 92 votes in favour to 2 against with 3 abstentions, Parliament adopted a resolution on Bangladesh, in which it condemns the repeated bomb attacks and urges the Government of Bangladesh to ensure that international investigators assisting Bangladesh's intelligence forces will have full access to all evidence regarding the attacks in accordance with the government's own promises, and urges the Government of Bangladesh to publish the investigation report in full. It urges the Government of Bangladesh to respect the instructions given by its High Court to avoid abuse of legal instruments in detaining opposition demonstrators and to refrain from repressing peaceful political protests through means of detention and torture. MEPs further urge the Government of Bangladesh, in particular, to put an end to the anti-crime operations by the paramilitary forces RAB (Rapid Action Battalion), which come down to extrajudicial killings; points out that the reputed human rights organisation ODHIKAR has stated that there were 90 publicly reported custodial deaths due to torture in 2004. They encourage the Government of Bangladesh to enable the population to participate in traditional cultural events and to provide security measures in order that these events, which reflect a tradition of tolerance and secularism can be implemented safely. Parliament also calls for the Government of Bangladesh to take preventive steps against Muslim paramilitary groups which have spread violence and intimidation in rural areas of Bangladesh.
MEPs reiterate their its support for the demand that those known to have participated in the massacre of Bangladeshi citizens and other war crimes during the Bangladeshi liberation war of 1971 be brought to trial. They consider that, in view of the parliamentary elections scheduled for late 2006/early 2007, systemic reforms are necessary in order to re-establish the principles of good governance, so that the election commission and the caretaker government can operate independently. They say a coordinated approach by all donors worldwide will be necessary to support such reforms. Parliament calls on all sides to refrain from undemocratic practices and to enter into an all-party dialogue through full participation in the democratic process in parliament; calls, in particular, on the opposition parties to end the boycott of parliamentary activity, since agitation and violence cause suffering to the people of Bangladesh.
The House expresses its support for the principled steps which EU representatives have taken during the last year in defence of the rights of religious minorities in Bangladesh, such as their physical presence at a complex of the Ahmadiyya Muslims, in October 2004, when fundamentalists had prepared to stage a mass assault on the complex. It calls on the Council to review the application of the human rights and democracy clause of the EU-Bangladesh Cooperation Agreement and to ascertain whether the Government of Bangladesh is making sufficiently strong efforts to fundamentally improve the human rights situation.Finally, Parliament notes recent modest steps taken by the Government of Bangladesh to improve the political situation in the country, will encourage the Government of Bangladesh to establish a situation respectful of law and order and will support any substantial progress on issues like good governance, freedom of press, the fight against corruption and respect for human rights.
National People’s Inquiry Commission formed to probe all the grenade and bomb attacks across the country.
A National People’s Inquiry Commission was formed on 19 February 2005 to probe all the grenade and bomb attacks across the country.
Professor Kabir Chowdhury was made Chairperson of the 21-member commission while Justice KM Sobhan will act as the co-chairperson and journalist and writer Shahriar Kabir as member secretary.
The commission will investigate all the bomb attacks and political killings that took place since March 1999 when a bomb exploded in the Udichi conference in Jessore.
It will publish a probe report with recommendations on August 21 this year.
Other members are Air Vice Marshal (Retd.) A K Khandakar, Barrister Shawkat Ali Khan, Poet Shamsur Rahman, Singer Kalim Sharafi, Hena Das, Maj. Gen. (Retd.) C R Dutta, Pramod Mankin MP, Barrister Amir-ul Islam, Barrister Shafique Ahmed, Professor Borhanuddin Khan Zahangir, Professor A A M S Arefin Siddiqui, Professor Abdul Khalek, Professor Anupam Sen, Professor Ajay Roy, Litterateur Hasan Azizul Haq, Columnist Mohiuddin Ahmed and Journalists Bazlur Rahman, Journalist Kamal Lohani and Journalist Iqbal Sobhan Chowdhury.
The commission will also form a 41-member secretariat to conduct the investigation.
Persons intending to provide any information regarding the attacks are requested to contact the commission’s office at Ga-16 Mohakhali, Dhaka-1212 or send e-mail at ganatadanta_bangladesh05@yahoo.com.
