Ex-Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina speaks out, demands punishment for killings

Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Tuesday, in her first statement since fleeing the violence-hit nation, demanded punishment for all those involved in the killings and acts of vandalism. 

In a statement shared by Hasina’s son Sajeed Wazed, she reminisced about her father Mujibar Rahman, family members and the lives lost when her father was assassinated on August 15, 1975.

“I appeal to you to observe the National Mourning Day on 15th August with due dignity and solemnity. Pray for the salvation of all souls by offering floral garlands and praying at Bangabandhu Bhaban,” the statement said. Her statement comes at a time when the interim government axed the National Mourning Day observed on August 15.  

She also pointed out that many lives were lost due to vandalism, arson and violence in the country. "Students, teachers, police, even internal women police, journalists, cultural workers, working people...Awami League and affiliated organisation leaders...workers in various institutions who have died as a victim of terrorist attack, I am condoling and praying for their souls,” she said. 

Hasina also condemned the destruction of the Bangladesh founder and her father’s museum. “They insulted the blood of millions of martyrs. I want justice from the countrymen,” she said. 

Widespread protests, which initially started as a quota reform movement and later turned to demanding the resignation of Hasina, erupted in Bangladesh last month. Hasina was forced to resign amid violence and vandalism in the country on August 5. She is currently in India.

Later an interim government, headed by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, took control of the country. Around 300 people lost their lives in the protests so far. 

Many Hindus were targeted by the protesters amid the violence. The apex body for Hindus in Bangladesh said that the community faced attacks and threats in 278 locations across 48 districts since the fall of the Sheikh Hasina-led government. 

The Bangladesh National Hindu Grand Alliance pointed out the assault on the Hindu religion. 

Meanwhile reaching out to the community, Yunus visited the famous Dhakeshwari Temple in Dhaka on Tuesday. He urged the people to exercise patience before judging his government’s role. 

Also, Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) leader and former PM Khaleda Zia criticised Hasina for “genocide” and sought a trial to be conducted against her.