Amidst the commemoration of the first anniversary of the July Uprising and the announcement of upcoming elections, the display organized by Islami Chhatra Shibir at Dhaka University campus did not stir as much controversy as expected. This event was another in a series of actions by Jamaat-e-Islami’s student members that seemed to undermine the significance of the 1971 liberation war, testing boundaries to see how far they could go in mocking the sentiments surrounding our War of Independence.
The student faction of Bangladesh’s primary Islamist party set up an exhibit at TSC (teacher-student center), a central hub of Dhaka University, showcasing images of seven convicted war criminals, which were later removed. Among these individuals were Motiur Rahman Nizami and Ali Ahsan Mohammad Mujaheed, known for their involvement in the targeted killing of intellectuals during the final days of the war in December 1971. The group also included Salauddin Quader Chowdhury, Abdul Quader Mollah, and Kamaruzzaman, who were found guilty of violent acts against the liberation forces.
It appears that Shibir may not realize that their efforts to glorify their past leaders only serve to alienate others. By attempting to portray collaborators and war criminals as martyrs, they not only create discomfort but also challenge groups like Students Against Discrimination (SAD), who had previously cooperated in anti-Awami League activities. Every time Shibir openly supports these convicted individuals, they reinforce doubts about their willingness to distance themselves from their controversial history.
It is expected that Shibir will persist in their endeavors to paint their leaders as innocent victims or heroes. However, the involvement of Dhaka University authorities in permitting such displays sends a distinct message. Criticism should be directed towards the university officials who allowed this event to occur without intervention, potentially identifying modern-day collaborators in the process.