New Delhi, February 6, 2025: India reacted sharply to the vandalism of Bangladesh’s founding father Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s historic residence in Dhaka. It termed the act “regrettable,” which took place on February 5. The place is now a memorial museum holding great importance in Bangladesh’s history as a symbol of the fight for freedom and national identity.They marched in front of his residence protesting a “Bulldozer Procession” call given by a few. The incident occurred at a moment when Bangladesh’s former Prime Minister, Sheikh Hasina, was supposed to deliver a speech. They did not just demolish the old house but even ransacked several adjacent buildings that were offices of different Awami League institutions. They made graffiti of the face of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman at every alley and street of the city. They set on fire ‘Sudha Sadan,’ Wajed Mian’s husband’s home, on Road 5 of Dhanmondi, where Hasina was staying. Riots broke out in every part of the country. The rioters set on fire the two houses of Sheikh Helal Uddin and Sheikh Salauddin Jewel. All of the houses of Hasina’s cousins in Khulna City were burnt down. The students of Dhaka University erased Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Hall engraved on the wall. India’s Ministry of External Affairs stated it was “deeply concerned” over the matter and that it had “historical importance”.The Indian government has asked the culprits to face justice and has also claimed that it is very much imperative to keep peace and stability in the region.Formal protest also came from Bangladesh; the country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs lodged strong protests with the Indian government over the activities of Sheikh Hasina while she was staying in India.It strongly condemned the whole incident. Indian Ministry of External Affairs expressed their grave concern about the incident. “The residence is a historically and culturally important place,” it said.The Indian Ministry of External Affairs said the vandalism was a pity because the residence epitomized the heroic struggle of the people of Bangladesh against invasion forces and oppressors. The ministry underscored that the residence carried much importance to the national psyche of Bangladesh and condemned the vandalism.The ministry has strongly condemned the act of vandalism.” Not far from the mishap scene, Sheikh Hasina, a former deposed prime minister of Bangladesh, had gone to deliver a stirring speech demanding justice on this mishap. “They may demolish the building but not the history. But history takes its revenge,” she asserted.Hasina asked the reason for the vandalism. “Today, this house is being demolished. What crime had it committed? Why were they so afraid of the house? I seek justice from the people of the country. Didn’t I do anything for you?” Vandalism provoked an epic public outcry throughout the country because many think that this act is nothing but an attack on the cultural and historical heritage of Bangladesh.“A thorough Indian citizen with residence in India but holding Bangladeshi citizenship, being distressed and angry, along with this feeling is filling the heart by vandalism of Dhaka’s historic house of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. It has not been the vandalization on the structure alone but against the soul of history and identity that Bangladesh possesses today. It represents several sacrifices and unknown hardships of millions of people who fought to gain freedom for our nation in the house of Bangabandhu. A betrayal of all that our fathers stood for and fought for years is being destroyed.It shocked me to the core. Bangabandhu is not only a leader for Bangladesh but also an international icon of resistance and justice. His house represents our path of journey from oppression to independence. It pains to see that it is targeted when Sheikh Hasina is about to talk. It looks like they wanted to wipe off our history and silence us all.In that respect, I am relieved to a small extent as India had condemned such practices and were absolutely in consonance with the two-nation narration in the light of history and culture. But still, I hope the government of Bangladesh acts promptly and metes out justice because it’s not something that has to do with rebuilding a house; it has to do with the preservation of our heritage and standing by the values that Bangabandhu had personified. We cannot let such evil acts decide our future.” – Nasir Uddin Nayon, Journalist and Public Speaker.Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, fondly known as Bangabandhu or the “Father of the Nation,” played a pivotal role in Bangladesh’s struggle for independence. His residence, now a historic monument, symbolizes the country’s fight for freedom and national identity. Recently, the house was vandalized, sparking widespread outrage and calls for justice and accountability. This act of destruction has sent shockwaves throughout Bangladesh and the international community, highlighting the importance of preserving historical sites and national heritage.The destruction of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s house is not just an attack on a physical structure, but also on the principles and values that shape Bangladesh’s national identity. The incident has sparked a national outcry, with many demanding justice and protection for the country’s historical heritage. As the situation continues to unfold, the international community remains vigilant, emphasizing the importance of preserving history and promoting national unity. Stay updated with the latest news.
By Anusmita Bhatta
Reporting for True To Life News Media Pvt. Ltd.