Although Jamaat-e-Islami, a significant political and religious organization in Bangladesh, is officially barred from participating in elections due to a Supreme Court ruling, its influence persists in more unconventional ways. Despite this legal prohibition, Jamaat-e-Islami has demonstrated its ability to incite violence and create chaos on the streets, a troubling sign of the increasing role of revolutionary forces in shaping Bangladesh’s political landscape. Observers have raised concerns that this trend could lead to politics being controlled by street power, potentially plunging the nation into a state of anarchy that would severely hinder its progress.
The situation in Bangladesh is particularly disheartening for the elderly population, particularly those between seventy and eighty years of age. These individuals, who once witnessed the birth of Bangladesh and contributed to its early development, now face the grim reality that the country they helped build has seemingly abandoned the principles and aspirations they fought for. In recent years, Bangladesh has shown commendable performance in various human development indices and demonstrated potential for rapid economic growth. However, this progress is marred by signs of regression, revealing a troubling shift in national attitudes and geopolitical alignments.
One of the most poignant changes is the alteration in Bangladesh’s perception of India. Historically, India played a crucial role in Bangladesh’s liberation struggle and was considered a friend and ally. Yet, in a dramatic reversal, India is now often viewed with hostility, reflecting a significant shift in diplomatic and public sentiment. Additionally, the legacy of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the revered leader and founding father of Bangladesh, has suffered as his statues and memorials have been vandalized. The Awami League, the country’s oldest and one of its largest political parties, finds its leaders and members facing severe threats. The living freedom fighters and the memory of the martyrs who sacrificed for the country’s independence are disrespected, while Pakistan, once the ultimate enemy, is being approached with newfound friendliness.
This paradoxical development raises a crucial question: what has led to this dramatic transformation in Bangladesh’s political and social landscape?
To understand the root causes, one must consider the role of power struggles and vindictive politics, which have long plagued Bangladesh. The history of political instability in the country is deeply intertwined with the violent elimination of leaders and frequent coups. The assassination of the first president, Bangabandhu Mujibur Rahman, along with his family, and the subsequent killing of his successor, Ziaur Rahman, are emblematic of the relentless cycle of violence. The political turmoil continued with General Ershad’s military coup and sporadic power transfers, creating a backdrop of instability.
In particular, the events of 1996 and 2001 stand out as rare instances of peaceful power transitions, highlighting the broader trend of unstable governance. More recently, the tenure of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who has been in power since 2009, has seen a consolidation of authority but also significant controversy. Her administration has been accused of corruption, manipulation of elections, and severe repression of political opposition. Former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia’s imprisonment in 2018, amid accusations of treason, further exacerbated the political crisis. Sheikh Hasina’s administration has faced criticism for conducting elections in a manner perceived as dishonest, leading to public outcry and protest.
Another significant factor contributing to the current crisis is the increasing power of street politics. The liberation struggle of 1971, which began with student and public protests, is now mirrored in contemporary political movements. However, the resurgence of street justice has often led to indiscriminate violence and unrest. For instance, the unprovoked attacks on minority Hindu communities following Sheikh Hasina’s rumored escape highlight the dangers of unchecked street power. Such violence undermines societal harmony and poses a severe threat to Bangladesh’s stability.
Additionally, the influence of street forces extends to the realm of justice and law enforcement. The release of Jasimuddin Rahmani, a pro-al-Qaeda terrorist, exemplifies the detrimental impact of street politics on peace and security. This incident, among others, illustrates the growing power of revolutionary forces and their ability to disrupt established institutions.
Furthermore, Jamaat-e-Islami’s continued activity despite its electoral ban signifies its ongoing influence. The organization remains a potent revolutionary force capable of inciting violence and unrest. As such, the potential for street control of politics poses a serious threat to Bangladesh’s future, raising concerns about the country’s ability to achieve sustainable progress.
Recent anti-India protests along the Dhaka highway further highlight the volatile political climate. These demonstrations have absurdly blamed India for Bangladesh’s devastating floods, attributing the disaster to alleged water releases from the Dumbur embankment in Tripura. In reality, the floods are primarily due to extreme rainfall, a consequence of global climate change. The misattribution of blame to India not only reflects the deterioration of diplomatic relations but also exemplifies how political agendas can manipulate public perception.
Despite the clear scientific evidence that excess water from the Dumbur dam cannot be the sole cause of the floods, misconceptions persist. A statutory complaint by student leader Naheed Islam, appointed as the Public Adviser to the interim government, has fueled these erroneous beliefs. Such misinformation, coupled with the dominance of radical leaders like Naheed Islam, further complicates the political landscape of Bangladesh.
In conclusion, the political and social turmoil in Bangladesh is a complex interplay of historical grievances, power struggles, and the influence of revolutionary forces. The country’s shifting alliances, the rise of street politics, and the persistent focus on revenge politics all contribute to a precarious situation that threatens its stability and progress. For Bangladesh to overcome these challenges, it must address the root causes of its instability and seek a path toward reconciliation and constructive governance.