Retired members of the armed forces, under the banner of the "National Unity and Solidarity Council," held a rally on Saturday in front of the Raowa Club in the capital, protesting against what they termed as "Indian aggression" and calling for a united front to safeguard the country's independence and sovereignty.
The protest, titled "Against Indian Hegemony," saw former military officers raising concerns over India's alleged propaganda and interference in Bangladesh's internal affairs.
The speakers highlighted their resolve to counter any internal or international conspiracy against the country, emphasizing the importance of a foreign policy rooted in equality.
Colonel Ahsan Ullah (retd), a freedom fighter and convener of the event, said: “We want a foreign policy based on equality. Bangladesh will not accept any subservient or knee-jerk policies under any circumstances.”
Addressing the Indian people, he added: “We have no enmity with you; you are our friends. However, we categorically reject any form of Hindu supremacism or hegemony in this country.”
The rally was sparked by incidents such as the attack on the Bangladesh Assistant High Commission in Agartala, Tripura, and the desecration of the Bangladeshi flag, which the protesters viewed as direct threats to Bangladesh's sovereignty.
Speakers expressed alarm over the perceived aggression in Indian media since the July-August uprising, accusing Indian outlets of spreading propaganda against Bangladesh.
Lieutenant Colonel (retd) Manish Dewan reiterated the retired officers' commitment to standing with the nation. “Just as we stood by the people during the curfews of the past, we will always be on the streets when the country needs us. We remain steadfast in our oath to protect the country's independence,” he said.
The council demanded the public disclosure of all agreements signed between Bangladesh and India, emphasizing transparency in international dealings.
Colonel Lutful Haque (retd) and other senior officers echoed the sentiment, urging the government to ensure accountability in its foreign policy.
Following the rally, the retired officers took out a protest procession from the Raowa Club in Mohakhali, marching through the Bijoy Sarani area before returning to the starting point.
Slogans such as “Delhi no Dhaka, Dhaka Dhaka” resonated throughout the march, reflecting their defiance against perceived Indian dominance.
The protest marks a significant show of discontent from retired military personnel, who called on all citizens to set aside political differences and unite against threats to the nation's sovereignty.
