Discussion on 'Bakshali regime' held in Chattogram

A detailed discussion on "Bakshali regime" was held in Chattogram. The event took place on Saturday, at the Baitakkhana Auditorium in the Cheragi Pahar area of the city, organised by the 'Students Alliance for Democracy (SAD).'

The discussion shed light on the current political reality of the country and the historical influence of Bakshal. 

Speakers presented critical perspectives on political power, cultural influence, and the shifting stance of public opinion. The keynote speaker was the philosopher and artist Boyati Rock Monu, reads a press statement issued today (12 October).

Monu elaborated on the Bakshal regime, its aesthetic stance, and its enduring impact on Bangladesh's political landscape. He stated, "The Bakshali regime is not just a governance structure; it has also created an aesthetic stance that continues to influence the cultural and political tendencies of the state. This reality, which began during Sheikh Mujib's era, still persists in various forms in Bangladesh today."

The event was attended by students, teachers, journalists, professionals, and politicians, representing various segments of society. Speakers expressed their views on the political and cultural roles of Bakshal.

SAD Convener Jubairul Hasan Arif remarked, "Our activism should aim to create a political environment where another Bakshal cannot take root."

Gonoshonghoti Andolon leader Hasan Maruf Rumi commented, "The Awami League's first step towards Bakshali rule was to monopolise the spirit of the Liberation War."

Journalist Faruk Munir observed, "The Bakshali sequence has not ended. Its continuity still exists in our society, undermining democratic frameworks."

SAD co-organiser Jaglul Ahmed stated, "Portraying Sheikh Mujib as the mastermind of 1971 is a kind of 'Bakshali myth' that has established itself as a profound political reality within intellectual circles. Even the BNP is not outside this Bakshali reality, and viewing the Constitution as something sacred is essentially a Bakshali notion."

SAD co-organiser Mohammad Jamir discussed Sheikh Mujib's governance and the political context following independence, noting, "Sheikh Mujib's 'me, me' narrative reflects a personal power-centric attitude of a political leader, which undermined the revolution of 1971."

The discussion concluded with Boyati Monu addressing questions from the audience and presenting views on how to build cultural and political resistance against the current Bakshali reality.

SAD's initiative has opened up new avenues for political awareness and cultural understanding among different segments of society. The organisers mentioned that they plan to host similar future events, providing an intellectual platform for the socially conscious.