Student leaders asks CA to form 'anti-propaganda cell': Hasnat

Leaders of the Anti-discrimination Student Movement recommended forming an "anti-propaganda cell" in a meeting with Chief Adviser Professor Yunus. 

The chief adviser's office has taken note of our suggestions, Convener of the student movement Hasnat Abdullah told a press briefing after a meeting with the CA at his residence State House Jamuna this evening (3 December).

They discussed recent tensions in the country, Bangladesh's relations with India, communal issues, rising commodity prices, the situation on the ground, opinions from people, and also about forming an education reform commission.

Regarding communal harmony in Bangladesh, Hasnat said, "...There is a lot of propaganda going on in the world media. That is why there was talk of forming an anti-propaganda cell."

On bilateral ties between India and Bangladesh, he said all agreements made between the neighbouring government and the previous fascist government should be published.

"Our trade relations with India should be conducted fairly."

"The Indian government has used the Awami League as a weapon to control Bangladeshis. That is where we are uncomfortable. We want a relationship to be built between the people and the state," he said.

"The chief adviser has asked us to find out what the people have to say. I have also conveyed to him people's thoughts over rising prices of essential commodities." 

Addressing minorities, Hasnat said, "To anyone sitting here [in Bangladesh] and brewing conspiracies, we want to clearly say that Hindus, Muslims, Buddhists and Christians will all fight together to uphold the sovereignty and integrity of Bangladesh."