C T Online Desk: Sarjis Alam, a key coordinator of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, issued a stern warning on Thursday against alleged attempts by the Awami League and its affiliates to incite a counter-uprising.
He was addressing a gathering in front of the National Museum in Shahbagh, where students from various colleges and universities, along with other citizens, had gathered as part of the “Resistance Week” program.
“We have received information from various quarters that today, on August 15, the Awami League, Chhatra League, Jubo League, and other allies of autocracy are planning to instigate a counter-uprising,” Sarjis said.
“We want to firmly warn them that if they dare to make even the slightest attempt to reverse the gains of the August 5 student-public uprising, which toppled the fascist government, their existence will be at risk.”
He emphasized the determination of the student-public alliance to defend the country, saying: “We will do whatever is necessary to steer this country in the right direction. Any attempt to destabilize the nation will be met with immediate resistance.”
The gathering at Shahbagh marked a continuation of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, which toppled the Awami League government.
Sarjis explained that the movement had initially intended to avoid further street protests but was compelled to act in response to ongoing conspiracies.
“Certain conspirators, both within and outside the country, are still plotting against the nation. To counter their attempts to exploit the situation, the student-public had to take to the streets again,” he explained.
In response to questions about the movement’s four-point demands, Sarjis reiterated the need for vigilance. “We have reliable information that some accomplices are planning a counter-uprising this week. That’s why we have called for ‘Resistance Week.’ If they make any dirty plans, we, the student-public, are ready to resist them.”
Sarjis also expressed confidence in the current interim government, which he described as a government of the people.
He urged the authorities to act swiftly on the movement’s demands, cautioning that any delay would be met with further action from the student-public.
“We believe the interim government will act accordingly, but if we notice any procrastination, we are prepared to take action. We know how much time each task should take, and it must be completed within that timeframe,” he warned.
When asked about the potential trial of Sheikh Hasina, Sarjis called for a fair and impartial process.
“We want a trial for Hasina that is not one-sided. The people of Bangladesh and the world should judge her based on fairness,” he said, advocating for her trial in the International Crimes Tribunal.
Sarjis also hinted at the possibility of demanding a ban on Awami League politics if the public supports such a move.
“Since the start of the quota reform movement, we have done what the people of this country want. If the people believe that the Awami League should not have the right to engage in politics here, we will raise that demand on their behalf,” he concluded.
