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Published : 28 Jul 2024, 08:01 PM
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has said those responsible for the killings amid violent incidents linked to the recent quota reform protests will be identified and punished to ensure public safety.
"My effort will be to identify and ensure the punishment of those involved in these murders. I will do that,” she said during a meeting with the families of the dead at the Ganabhaban on Sunday.
The prime minister also provided them with financial aid.
“What wrong have people done to deserve such violence? Killing people to overthrow the government—when does that happen? What’s the fault of ordinary people?" she wondered.
She urged the bereaved families to cooperate with the authorities to ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice.
"I request your help. If you know anything, please inform us. We cannot allow such barbarity to continue,” she said.
“Is it possible for a Muslim to hang another Muslim's body? Those involved will definitely face justice. We must ensure their punishment to maintain public safety," Hasina said, referring to the killing of a policeman during the protests.
The prime minister criticised the destruction of public and private properties caused during the recent violence.
"You have seen how everything has been burned and destroyed. Places where people receive services, including COVID hospitals, have been set on fire. They have killed people in cold blood," she said.
Addressing the families of the victims, she expressed her empathy.
"All I can say is, please be patient. Pray to Allah to save our country from these murderers and oppressors," said Hasina.
She said the demands of the quota reform protesters were addressed and that efforts were made to explain things patiently.
"We have always tried to explain to them, to talk with them, and to make every effort. But today, there is wailing everywhere. It is unbearable."
She continued, "We have accepted all the demands. Yet, it seems that the demands are never-ending. One is met, another comes up, then two more, then four, and even eight. What is this?”
“I have repeatedly said that we are looking into it.”
Hasina reassured the bereaved families of her support. "As long as I’m alive, I will be by your side.”
“What can I say to comfort you? I can only say that I am just like you. I am an orphan who has lost parents and siblings. I understand your pain. I am here for you."
Reflecting on her own loss on Aug 15, 1975, she said: "I understand your pain and your sorrow. We live every day with the pain of losing our parents, siblings, and family members.”
“We couldn’t even see the bodies, nor perform the burial rites.”
“I couldn't return to the country either; I wasn't allowed back for six years."
Hasina said, "When I returned to the country, I travelled across Bangladesh. I wanted to bring smiles to the faces of the people, as my father used to say, 'Make the sorrowful smile.' I have been making that effort.”
“However, recurring incidents like these acts of terrorism are not acceptable."
The families of 34 victims, including Abu Sayed from Begum Rokeya University, Rangpur, received financial aid in the form of savings bonds and cash. The prime minister also talked to the families, and many broke down in tears.
