Dhanmondi 32 vandalism: A backlash to Sheikh Hasina‍‍`s provocative remarks

In response to the recent vandalism at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s house on Dhanmondi 32, the interim government has expressed its concern, calling the incident "unfortunate and unwanted." 

According to the government, this act of violence was sparked by public anger, fueled by a provocative speech made by Sheikh Hasina, who is currently in hiding in India.

The government’s statement claimed that no previous attacks had occurred at the iconic 32 No. house over the past six months.

However, the latest incident was triggered by Sheikh Hasina’s speech, which allegedly caused a deep sense of outrage among the public.

The speech, as explained in the statement, had two controversial points. 

“First, Sheikh Hasina insulted and disrespected the martyrs of the July Uprising. She made absurd and offensive remarks about their deaths, showing disregard for their sacrifices and dishonoring the uprising.”

The second point of contention, according to the statement, is that even after fleeing the country in the face of the uprising, Sheikh Hasina continues to issue threats. 

“Despite being in exile, she speaks in the same aggressive tone she used when she was in power, where she relied on corruption, terrorism, and oppression. She is still threatening the July Uprising and all who took part in it. She has even threatened to create instability in the country.”

The interim government justified the vandalism as a reaction to Sheikh Hasina’s inflammatory behavior. 

“She continues to provoke the people by attacking the wounds left by the July massacre. The destruction at the 32 No. house is a response to her violent conduct.”

The government assured that it is taking all necessary steps to protect public safety, with law enforcement agencies working hard to restore order. 

“We are on high alert to protect the lives and property of the people.”

The statement further emphasized that if Sheikh Hasina refrains from making such speeches, future incidents like this could be avoided. 

“We urge India not to allow its territory to be used for activities that destabilize Bangladesh and not to provide Sheikh Hasina with a platform to make such speeches. The interim government does not want to see a repeat of such incidents.”

On the issue of accountability, the government said that trials of those involved in the July massacre are progressing. 

“We are committed to ensuring justice and delivering appropriate punishment to the perpetrators of the genocide. We are also exploring legal actions against those engaged in provocative activities.”