On Wednesday night, a group of attackers targeted the historic residence of Bangladesh's founding father, Mujibur Rahman, in Dhaka. The residence was also a family home of Sheikh Hasina, the current Prime Minister of Bangladesh. They were reportedly responding to Hasina's speech that had been posted on social media where she stated her commitment to opposing the interim government.
The attackers were armed, and one group used bulldozers while another made use of heavy machinery to damage the house, where an independence memorial hangs. During her speech on her online address, Hasina had called on her supporters to protest against the violence and uphold their values. The attack took place at the time when Bangladesh witnessed protests in light of PM's comments regarding the actions of the interim government.
The online address by Sheikh Hasina provoked a furious reaction from the protesters who organized a rally called the "Bulldozer Celebration March." When the situation turned ugly, the Indian Acting High Commissioner in Dhaka took note of the protests and expressed concerns over the remarks made by Hasina and the impact they were likely to have on regional stability. Bangladesh retaliated against the violent incidents by accusing India of influencing the rhetoric of Hasina, which it said was destabilizing the country.
In the midst of this turmoil, the movements and words of Hasina became a centric point of tensions. The attackers also targeted the home in Dhaka that Mujibur Rahman had once lived in, where the family and their relations were murdered. This building is now a museum, located within a large complex within the capital city that honors the Liberation War.
In August, destroying sculpture and other symbols connected to the history of the country was part of the larger struggle surrounding the nation's independence. The statues of Mujibur Rahman were particularly the main target. These violent acts have opened heated debates on the state of the nation and the future of its governance.
Hasina had taken refuge in India when there was political turmoil in the country. She had returned to Bangladesh after the collapse of the interim government. The Indian government had given protection to her at that time, which was a significant gesture then. However, in recent years, the situation has worsened further. Hasina's government is criticized for failing to keep control over the rising violence in the country.
Attacks on religious minorities, including Hindus, have been on the rise during Hasina's tenure, making the political situation even more complex. While India had demanded action to control the violence, Hasina has been facing mounting criticism both domestically and internationally. Her government is accused of undermining the rights of various groups, including minorities, which has led to growing calls for her resignation.
Despite these challenges, Sheikh Hasina remains defiant and promises to keep on defending the history and values of her nation. Many are of the view that the country's political battles are far from over, but Hasina's leadership continues to play a pivotal role in defining Bangladesh's future.