People Will Resist If Administration Acts Like Oppressors: Jamaat Ameer

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr. Shafiqur Rahman has issued a stern warning, stating that if the administration abandons the path of justice and acts like oppressors, it will not be tolerated under any circumstances, and the people will rise up to resist.

He made these remarks on Wednesday while visiting the site of clashes and the overall situation in the Mirpur-10 area of the capital, which erupted centering an eviction drive on footpaths.

Addressing local traders and common people at the scene, Dr. Shafiqur Rahman clearly stated that they do not want the administration to side with injustice like the authoritarian regimes of the past. Noting that the administration will always receive public cooperation for positive and rational initiatives, he emphasized that authorities must strictly uphold the policy of punishing the wicked and nurturing the righteous.

Regarding the eviction drive, the Jamaat Ameer remarked that while keeping roads clean and walkable is a civic duty, ensuring the livelihoods of marginalized small-scale street traders is equally the state's responsibility. Criticizing the abrupt eviction drive carried out without making proper and honorable alternative arrangements for rehabilitation, he noted that conflicts could have been easily avoided had local public representatives been involved prior to such steps. He urged for a permanent resolution through a coordinated and sustainable plan.

Bringing up the long-standing issue of extortion surrounding footpaths, he pointed out that a dishonest syndicate has been holding these small traders hostage for a long time by collecting regular tolls, which ultimately increases the financial burden on everyday consumers. He made it clear that extortion, land-grabbing, and drug syndicates will not be tolerated anywhere in the country. He demanded that those involved in these crimes be brought to justice swiftly and given exemplary punishment.

Expressing profound grief over the casualties during the clashes and the damage to public and local properties, Dr. Shafiqur Rahman urged everyone to exercise patience and maintain peace. Furthermore, he strongly urged the government to stand by the affected individuals and find a humane, pragmatic solution through dialogue.