Sarjis Alam, a coordinator of the anti-discrimination student movement, stated that the aspirations for which lives were sacrificed during the July movement must be clearly reflected in the manifesto. "The manifesto should not echo the voices of a select few; it should represent the collective will of the common people from every district and police station," he said.
Alam made these remarks on Friday morning while distributing leaflets and participating in public gatherings as part of the movement’s efforts to build public support for the July revolution’s declaration in Bhola.
He added, "For 15 years, the people of Bangladesh have endured severe oppression under an unprecedented fascist and mafia regime. Together, the people overthrew the dictatorial Hasina government, and now they demand her trial as a priority in the 2024 manifesto."
He emphasized, "The manifesto must clearly address justice for Hasina and those responsible for the killings and bloodshed. We have consulted people from all walks of life, who have expressed solidarity with our seven-point demands, calling them justified and essential."
Sarjis further urged the inclusion of the sacrifices of laborers from every district and upazila in the manifesto. "This must not be a narrative of just a few; it should honor the contributions of everyone."
Criticizing the former regime, he said, "Hasina and her family created syndicates, robbing the people of their rights. After their expulsion, the people of Bengal aspire to build a Bangladesh founded on equality."
He noted that the united efforts of students across Bangladesh, under the banner of the anti-discrimination movement, succeeded in driving Hasina out and sending her to India. He insisted that the manifesto should prominently highlight this historic coup.
Sarjis expressed hope that the state would promptly implement the movement's seven-point demands, including official recognition of the martyrs of the uprising, government-funded treatment for the wounded, and justice for the Awami murderers and their accomplices.
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan
