The human chain program organised by the UGC at universities and colleges across the country yesterday was a tremendous display of solidarity in the fight against militancy.
Something like this was needed to show that people do not condone Islamist terrorism, and that violence will never be seen as an acceptable part of any religion or culture in Bangladesh.
Social mobilisation on this scale goes a long way towards sending a clear message. It was heartening to see over 100,000 linking hands holding various banners with messages like “Bangladesh stands against terrorism,” and “We want peace, no place for terrorism.”
If we, as a nation, can leave behind petty bickering and blame games, and stay together like we did yesterday, militancy won’t stand a chance
Ever since the July 1 attack on Holey Artisan Bakery, carried out by young men, some of whom had gone to universities here, the Bangladeshi youth have been unfairly stigmatised and viewed with suspicion. Certain prestigious private institutions have also had their reputations tarnished because of gross generalisations that were made based on the backgrounds of the terrorists.
Yesterday’s display of unity shows that the youth are not to blame. The hordes of young people who came out to denounce extremism in the strongest terms make that clear.
It shows that we, as a people, when needed, will come together for the values that truly define our nation.
This is the time for the nation to come together and heal, not to point fingers -- especially not at young people who have bear the responsibility of building our future.
If we, as a nation, can leave behind petty bickering and blame games, and stay together like we did yesterday, militancy won’t stand a chance.
