Special Correspondent: Bangladesh Islami Chhatra Shibir has strongly condemned and protested the attempt to shift the blame for the attacks on the offices of national dailies `The Daily Star` and `Prothom Alo` to the organization, following the martyrdom of Sharif Osman Hadi, a spokesperson for the Inqilab Manch and a revolutionary voice against hegemony.
In a joint statement issued on Sunday (December 21), the organization`s central president Zahidul Islam and secretary general Nurul Islam Saddam expressed their protest. The statement reads, "Bangladesh Islami Chhatra Shibir has always been respectful of the media and independent journalism. We believe that any attack on the media is a direct assault on freedom of expression. The organization never supports such actions."
The statement further adds, "A vested group is attempting to cover up the actual events by blaming Chhatra Shibir for the vandalism and arson at the offices of `The Daily Star` and `Prothom Alo`. We condemn and protest this deliberate misinformation, conspiracy, and politicking."
Regarding the personal statements made by the president of Rajshahi University branch and vice president of RUCSU, and the secretary of Jahangirnagar University branch, the statement clarifies that these were individual statements and not the official position of Chhatra Shibir. The concerned officials have already explained their statements and expressed regret for any unintended `slip of tongue`.
The statement concludes, "We clearly declare that Chhatra Shibir has no connection whatsoever with attacks on media or cultural institutions. Such incidents are not justifiable. We hope the misunderstanding created by misinformation will be resolved. We demand an impartial, fair, and acceptable investigation into the incident and urge all parties to refrain from spreading confusion in the media and public."
The leaders also stated, "The martyrdom of Osman bin Hadi will strengthen our struggle against fascism and hegemony. In all circumstances, we need to prioritize patience, wisdom, responsible behavior, and national unity."