Members of the families of BDR personnel have organized a human chain highlighting three key demands, with the primary demand being justice for the BDR massacre and addressing the plight of those who have suffered injustices.
The human chain took place at the base of the Raju Memorial Sculpture on Dhaka University campus at 11:30am on Sunday.
During the human chain, they presented three key demands.
The first claim is to identify and bring the culprits and masterminds behind the Pilkhana massacre, which claimed the lives of 57 army officers and 74 individuals, to justice promptly with exemplary punishment.
The second one is to release all innocent BDR members and reinstate those dismissed through proceedings of 18 special courts with full government benefits, including ration, salary, allowances and promotions.
The third one is to amend Clause 2(e) of the notification to allow the investigation commission to work independently, impartially and fearlessly.
During the event, Dr Iran, general secretary of the Labour Party, said: “The BDR personnel risked their lives to protect the nation’s borders. Yet today, they remain imprisoned and continue to face oppression. We urge the interim government to immediately ensure the release of the BDR members and justice for the massacre. Otherwise, the public will take to the streets once again.”
Mahin Sarkar, coordinator of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, said: “No further delay regarding the BDR personnel matter will be tolerated. The release of innocent BDR members and justice for the massacre must be expedited. Those eligible should also be reinstated in service.”
Another leader of the movement, Pritam Sohag, added: “Our struggle wasn’t just against autocracy; it was for ensuring fair justice. We urge the interim government to ensure justice for incidents like the BDR massacre. Failing to do so will erode the public’s trust in you. We demand swift action to secure justice.”
On January 9, Mahin Sarkar had announced a nationwide human chain program demanding justice for the Pilkhana massacre and fair treatment of the affected BDR members.
