Of the numerous criticisms of the previous administration, one that always stood out was how those in power would use many means necessary to stifle dissent, protests, or any voices raised against it.
Peaceful protests have been and will continue to be an integral component of any functioning democracy -- something that Bangladesh has quite never been but has aspirations of becoming.
However, when protests, regardless of how legitimate the reasons may be, begin to not only inconvenience but disrupt and even potentially harm everyday citizens, that is when concerns must be raised.
This has been the reality for the Dhaka South City Corporation, which has become virtually non-functional as a result of the protests.
That drainage system management has been overshadowed by the protest, while mosquito infestations have surged is cause for alarm -- these are issues that, if left unchecked for too long, have severe consequences to residents.
It begs the question: When do we rethink the nature of our protests, no matter the legitimacy, if it is consistently aggravating public suffering and results in real human cost?
What we want to see is reason and sound judgment. Protests are necessary, and as we saw during the uprising of last year, people need to raise their voices to bring to light legitimate issues. However, those organizing protests must also recognize when these protests do more harm than good.
Ultimately, every single person in this country would want the nation to prosper and move in the right direction. That will only happen through togetherness and understanding, instead of only pushing forward one’s agenda at the expense of others.
