Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has strongly criticised the role of international leaders over the Gaza conflict, saying that it was difficult to remain silent after witnessing the “tragic deaths” of innocent women and children.
She said: “Innocent women and children are being killed everyday in Gaza. But the global community and human rights watchdogs are silent. How can they – the global conscience still remain quiet?"
“We cannot remain silent after witnessing such acts of killings. This can also happen to us. Women and children were killed during conflicts in the past as well.”
She made the remarks while addressing a discussion on the occasion of the 84th birth anniversary of Bangamata Fazilatun Nesa Mujib at Osmani Memorial Hall in the capital on Friday.
Criticising international community's inactiveness over the Gaza issue, Hasina said: “The US congress sends us letters if someone dies here. But, they are silent now.
“The international human rights groups are also remaining quiet while often visiting the Chittagong Hill Tracts to monitor the human rights situation.”
She requested the Mahila Awami League and other women organisations of the country to strongly raise their voice against this kind of people, where women and children are being killed.
“When there is any such incident anywhere in the world, I will request you to raise your voice …though these incidents are not taking here in Bangladesh there should not be any complacence that we are safe,” she said.
Terming Bangamata Fazilatun Nesa as one of the most courageous, intelligent, dedicated, loving and affectionate ladies of the national history, they said she has immense contribution to the politics of Bangabandhu and shape the movements of Awami League.
“Bangamata was always loyal to all political decisions of Bangabandhu and was ready to face any situation amidst political repression of Pakistani juntas throughout the political life of Bangabandhu, she said, she always tried to lead a simple life like the common people of Bangladesh and taught this to her children.”
