A fanatical class gradually developed unnoticed: PM

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina remarked that a fanatical class has gradually emerged, unnoticed by the public.

She made this observation during a discussion and prayer session organised by the Bangladesh Krishak League at the KIB Institute auditorium in Khamarbari, Dhaka, on Thursday (August 1).

Highlighting the initiatives taken by the Awami League, the prime minister said, "We aimed to develop an educated and non-communal nation. But as we were working towards that goal, we saw remnants of Pakistan’s influence persist. A class with deep-seated bigotry and misogyny gradually developed, unnoticed by many. These are the same people who were allies of the war criminals, those involved in genocide, looting, and the rape of women during the Liberation War."

Referring to recent events, she said, "You saw the consequences just a few days ago. When protests erupted under the guise of the quota movement, we had already addressed this issue back in 2018 by abolishing the quota system. However, when the children of freedom fighters filed a case, the High Court overturned our decision, reinstating the quota. The government immediately appealed to the Appellate Division, which stayed the High Court's decision, effectively canceling the quota system again. Despite this, protests resumed in July, even though the quota system no longer existed."

The Awami League president added, "There was no quota system at the time, yet the protests continued. People from all walks of life, including teachers and guardians, were joining in. I had a strong suspicion that there was something more behind this movement. We made every effort to engage with them, even arranging meetings with ministers. But nothing was accepted. Even after the High Court hearing date was brought forward and the demands for quota reform were met, the protests and their demands persisted."