US pays heed to rumors of ‘2 killed in quota-movement’

Despite no reports from any of the Bangladeshi media outlets or law enforcement agencies regarding any fatalities during the ongoing student protests, the US Department of State has stated otherwise. 

This raises questions about whether it may have been influenced by rumors circulating on social media platforms.

During a regular media briefing in Washington on Monday(July 15), a journalist named Mushfiqul Fazal Ansarey asked about the ongoing student movement in Bangladesh demanding quota abolishment in government jobs. 

He highlighted that students have been protesting for several days, advocating for merit-based recruitment and the elimination of quotas. The journalist mentioned that Bangladesh Chhatra League, affiliated with the ruling party, allegedly attacked the protesters, resulting in injuries to approximately 500 students. This incident occurred after warnings from the Prime Minister directed towards the protesters, the journalist added.

Furthermore, injured students receiving treatment in the emergency department of hospital, reportedly retaliated by confronting and attacking Chhatra League leaders and activists within the hospital premises.

The journalist finally came up with his question, “So, what is your stance on those ongoing massive protest in Bangladesh?”

US Department of State Spokesperson Mathew Miller replied, "So we are aware of and are monitoring reports of widespread student protests in Dhaka and around Bangladesh that have killed two and attacked and injured hundreds." 

When specific information was sought from the US Embassy in Dhaka, its acting Spokesperson Leonard Hill told a news agency in Bangladesh on Tuesday morning that the statement was “monitoring reports” that included the injuries and deaths.

"We are always looking for the most accurate information and welcome journalists’ work to uncover the truth," he said.

Spokesperson Miller emphasized that "freedom of expression and peaceful assembly" are fundamental cornerstones of a flourishing democracy.

"We condemn any violence against peaceful protesters. Our thoughts are with those who have been impacted by this violence," he said during the briefing.

Who is Mushfiqul Fazal Ansarey?

Mushfiqul Fazal Ansarey, identifies himself as the Executive Editor of South Asia Perspectives-SAP, a Washington, USA headquartered monthly opinion-based magazine.

Mushfique Fazal Ansari, who served as Assistant Press Secretary to former Bangladeshi Prime Minister and BNP leader Khaleda Zia between 2001 to 2006. 

He is known as the nephew of Khaleda Zia‍‍`s former political secretary Harris Chowdhury.

Ansary was reportedly the former member secretary of BNP‍‍`s international sub-committee.