Hasina condemns recent quota reform violence as 'militant activity' by BNP, Jamaat-e-Islami

The incidents occurring in Bangladesh are not political, they are purely militant actions, according to her

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has labelled the recent violence surrounding the quota reform movement as acts of militancy.

"Militants of Jamaat, Shibir and BNP, Chhatra Dal attacked us," she said during a meeting with central leaders of the 14-Party Alliance at Ganabhaban on Monday evening.

Hasina accused the BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami, which opposed the 1971 Liberation War, and their student wings Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal and Islami Chhatra Shibir, of orchestrating these attacks.

"Militants from Shibir, Chhatra Dal, and BNP, Jamaat are behind these attacks," she asserted.

"The incidents occurring in Bangladesh are not political; they are purely militant actions," she added.

Addressing the issue of the quota reform movement, Hasina said: "It is now evident that the quota reform is not the main issue. The real objective is to destroy the institutions that serve Bangladesh and improve the lives of its people, aiming to destabilise the entire country."

She highlighted the nation's development achievements, saying: "Today, Bangladesh has achieved global recognition due to our progress. When people hear the name of Bangladesh, they show respect. We have brought the country to an international level through socio-economic and infrastructural development."

The Awami League president also criticised the extreme left and right-wing factions for aligning with Jamaat and Shibir.

During a discussion with female leaders of the Chhatra League, the ruling party’s student wing, at Ganabhaban, she said: "Extreme leftists are now acting as stooges for Jamaat and Shibir. This unusual alliance with extreme left and right-wingers is baffling."

The prime minister questioned the funding of the protests, asking: "Where do they get so much money from? Who is financing their daily expenses for the movement?"

She expressed her dismay. "I worked tirelessly to elevate Bangladesh to a position of honour, which they have tarnished. By undermining me through their protests, they have dragged the country down.

“If they had patriotism or a sense of responsibility, they would not have acted in this manner."

Highlighting the damage to government establishments, she questioned: "They have destroyed facilities meant for public service. Whose interests are they serving by doing this?"

Reflecting on the government's efforts, Hasina said: "I have worked to improve people’s lives, ensuring food security and healthcare, providing free medical services. Despite the personal loss of my parents, I have focused on changing the fate of this nation, striving for a better life for our people."

Stressing the Awami League government's achievements, she said: "As a victorious nation from the Liberation War, Bangladesh stands proudly on the global stage with dignity. I have contributed to this honour. No one can deny it. Bangladesh is regarded with respect and honour wherever it is mentioned."