Bangladesh Islami Chhatra Shibir, the student wing of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, has alleged that efforts are underway to revive the country’s old political practices in a new form.
The allegation came during a press conference held at the National Press Club on Wednesday. The event was moderated by the organisation’s Secretary General Nurul Islam Saddam, while a written statement was presented by its Central President Zahidul Islam, says a press release.
In his statement, Zahidul said that after more than 15 years of “fascist rule,” Bangladesh has entered a new phase where ‘authoritarian-style politics’ is trying to resurface in a renewed form.
He reiterated Chhatra Shibir’s commitment to building a state based on equality and human dignity, inspired by the spirit of the July Uprising.
He said that although student union elections have been held at universities, fundamental state reforms remain unaddressed and interim government has failed to deliver.
The organisation also demanded legal recognition of the “July Charter” through a public referendum to safeguard the legitimacy of the July movement.
They also criticised widespread extortion under political banners, killings of businessmen, party dominance in institutions, and alleged inaction of law enforcement. The student wing also accused BNP and its affiliates of committing political violence and sexual assault against women in Noakhali, Feni, Naogaon, and Jhenaidah.
Chhatra Shibir also highlighted media-related concerns, including partiality, dismissal of journalists, news censorship, and attempts to take over media institutions.
It accused the Awami League of slowing down judicial proceedings and influencing justice through “bail and case trading,” calling it a betrayal of the July martyrs.
The student group also denounced the Awami League’s announced “Dhaka Lockdown” programme, saying there is no room for fascism or anarchy in the new Bangladesh, and vowed that students and the public would resist any disorder.
The organisation called for firm action against extortion, terrorism, and political violence to ensure national peace and stability.
Among those present at the press conference were central office secretary Sibgatullah, publicity secretary Azizur Rahman Azad, and human resource management secretary Saidul Islam, along with other leaders.
