In a significant development, 315 ultra-left leaders and activists from Sirajganj, Pabna, Bogra, Meherpur, Kushtia, Rajbari, and Tangail have chosen to leave behind their extremist ideologies and reintegrate into mainstream society.
These individuals, associated with groups like Purba Banglar Communist Party (Marxist-Leninist), surrendered their arms to Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal yesterday.
The surrender ceremony took place in the afternoon at the headquarters of the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB)-12 in Sirajganj.
The minister, speaking as the chief guest, highlighted the historical context of the region. He emphasized that since the 1980s, the lack of proper communication systems had allowed the establishment of strongholds for proletarians and extremists in certain districts.
Kamal recalled the pivotal moment in 1999 when, under the guidance of then-Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, these extremists embraced the path of enlightenment with the slogan "Leave the life of terror, build an enlightened life."
Dhaka TribuneHe further mentioned that just as the prime minister had rehabilitated everyone back then, she had personally assured him that those who surrendered would receive full support, including financial assistance.
Appreciating the commendable work of RAB and the trust they have garnered, Kamal acknowledged that it was due to RAB's efforts in maintaining law and order, combating drug abuse, and countering terrorism that the extremists sought their help in the surrender process.
He also highlighted RAB's active involvement in various humanitarian activities, further cementing its role as a force for positive change in society.
In 1999, the government declared amnesty for the ultra-left activists. Some 2,026 extremists surrendered at a program in Sirajganj at that time. Of them, 786 were given jobs in the Ansar force, but many left jobs and have gone underground. In 2019, over 600 more surrendered in Pabna.
In Bangladesh, various leftist groups have been active in the south-western region since 1960s, inspired by Marxist and Maoist ideological convictions. Later, the organizations deviated from their ideologies and got involved in criminal and extremist activities.
The ultra-left parties that faced bans at different times include Purba Banglar Sarbahara Party (PBSP) and two factions of the Purba Banglar Communist Party (Marxist-Lelinist) -- Lal Pataka and Janajuddho.
