Dr. Shafiqur Rahman Accuses Government of Selling Independence at Victory Day Rally

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr. Shafiqur Rahman accused the ruling Awami League of betraying the ideals of Bangladesh's independence by aligning with foreign interests. He made these remarks as the chief guest at a rally organized by Dhaka Metropolitan South Jamaat-e-Islami on Monday at Paltan intersection to mark the 54th Victory Day.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Shafiqur Rahman said, "Those who sold Bangladesh's independence have fled the country. Sheikh Hasina has returned only to avenge the death of her father and mortgage Bangladesh's sovereignty to India for power. Sheikh Mujibur Rahman established Baksal in contradiction to the Liberation War's democratic ideals, leading to unrest. His daughter continues this trend, suppressing citizens and serving Indian interests."

Raising questions about the recognition of Ziaur Rahman's role in independence, he claimed, "Independence has been stolen and turned into a family's property. The people of Bangladesh still do not know where and when Sheikh Mujibur Rahman declared independence. If the freedom struggle was called on March 7, why did he raise the Pakistani flag at his residence on March 23, 1971?"

Dr. Shafiqur Rahman further promised justice for incidents of violence, citing events such as October 28, 2006, and student movements through 2024. He declared that if Jamaat-e-Islami assumes power, "all injustices and murders will be investigated, and justice will be ensured."

The rally, presided over by Dhaka Metropolitan South Ameer Md. Nurul Islam Bulbul and led by Secretary Dr. Shafiqul Islam Masud, saw a massive turnout, with roads from Paltan More to Kakrail filled with leaders, activists, and the general public.

Key Highlights:

• Special Guest Abdul Halim: Called for an end to “Indian hegemony” and urged national unity, saying, "Awami League, as India’s ally, must be removed to fulfill the martyrs' dreams."
• Md. Nurul Islam Bulbul: Accused Sheikh Hasina of conspiring to undermine independence and pledged Jamaat-Shibir's role in safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty.

The rally concluded with a march from Paltan intersection to Kakrail via Press Club, High Court, and Ramna, drawing thousands of participants. Leaders vowed to transform Bangladesh into a humane and welfare state under Jamaat-e-Islami’s leadership.