The BCL was once front and centre of major events that heralded the birth of Bangladesh. It commanded the respect of the people, and rightfully so.
The current iteration of BCL, however, is a far cry from what it once was. As we have seen time again, most recently with the Sylhet rape incident, what members of the BCL do is abuse the power afforded to them, without repercussions and without consequence.
This is a core problem of an organization that often outright refuses to acknowledge the repeated offenses carried out by its members.
The atrocities committed by BCL members within its ranks -- which include assault, rape, and murder -- require immediate policing, and it is clear to all that leaders within the organization have little control, ability, or desire to take the actions required to not only aid in the apprehension and punishment of these criminals, but also to make sure that these heinous acts are not repeated.
As we see that certain parts of the student wing of the ruling party have completely ignored the sanctity of law and order, those wielding power within the ruling party must step in, to hold the student wing accountable, to correct their wrongs, and send a harsh message that no individual or group, regardless of affiliation or connection, is above the law.
To that end, we implore Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to take note of the BCL’s rogue activities, not just with the recent rape case that has brought about fresh protests, but how it has conducted itself over the past few years.
The current iteration of the BCL is tarnishing the legacy of the organization founded by the Father of the Nation. BCL’s current conduct does not befit its legacy.
Instead of being an ally to the people, garnering respect and adulation as Bangabandhu had envisioned back in 1948, they have become feared and detested by the general public. This cannot be the legacy of a once proud and significant institution of Bangladesh
