March for Palestine
The Voice of Solidarity and the Duty of Humanity
A global wave of solidarity for the people of Palestine has risen, and its echoes are heard in Bangladesh as well. Recently, students of Dhaka University organized a special event titled "March for Palestine" to express their support for Palestine. In this event, various speakers, artists, and participants raised their voices for Palestine’s freedom and human rights.
Many took the stage to perform, sing, and deliver speeches, and at the end, everyone left the stage by offering salaam (Islamic greeting). At first glance, this might seem like a mere formality, but upon closer observation, it becomes clear that this reflects an important aspect of Bangladesh's social and cultural heritage—an expression of Hindu-Muslim harmony.
Bangladesh’s Secular Spirit: A Reflection of Multidimensional Culture
One striking aspect of the event was that many who bid farewell with salaam after their performances were followers of other religions, especially Hindus. This strongly proves that in Bangladesh, religious division is not the focal point—rather, mutual harmony prevails.
Bangladesh is a country with a rich and diverse culture where Hindus and Muslims have lived together peacefully for centuries, respecting each other’s beliefs and traditions. The social fabric of this country has been woven with mutual tolerance and unity. Religious differences have never been a cause for division; rather, people have walked together for generations while respecting each other’s cultures.
Attempts to Create Division in a Secular Society
In recent times, efforts have been observed to disrupt Bangladesh’s religious harmony. Particularly, neighboring India has been employing various strategies to create artificial divisions between Hindus and Muslims. While differences in religious beliefs and practices are natural, in Bangladesh, no one interferes with or attacks another’s faith. People are free to practice their religions peacefully.
Unfortunately, some Indian political figures, writers, and journalists are attempting to portray Bangladesh as a communal state to tarnish its international image. However, the reality is quite the opposite. Bangladesh has upheld Hindu-Muslim harmony for generations and remains a shining example of secular values. In contrast, India should focus on addressing the persecution and discrimination faced by its own minority Muslim population.
India should cease its oppression of minorities, particularly Muslims, and ensure justice and equality within its borders. As a neighboring country, it should respect Bangladesh’s peaceful coexistence and acknowledge its commitment to harmony and unity.
Palestine: A Land Turned into a Death Zone
The current situation in Palestine is a severe humanitarian catastrophe. There is no shortage of global sympathy for Palestine—protests, human chains, and demonstrations are happening worldwide. However, in reality, these expressions of solidarity are not alleviating the suffering of the Palestinian people. On the contrary, their agony is intensifying by the day.
Blockades, airstrikes, and indiscriminate killings have turned Palestine into a land of death. There is nothing left but rubble. Every day, children’s lifeless bodies are found, parents lose their sons and daughters, thousands of women become widows. How many husbands have lost their wives? How many wives have lost their husbands?
Palestine today is a city of mourning—where the air carries the cries of children and the wails of mothers. In this land, loss and sorrow are the only realities.
The Responsibility of the Global Community: Standing for Justice
Expressing sympathy for Palestine is not enough; taking effective action is what truly matters. The global community must take a firm stand against Israel’s illegal occupation and relentless oppression. Powerful nations must uphold humanity and take meaningful steps to restore the rightful freedoms of the Palestinian people.
The "March for Palestine" organized by Dhaka University students sends a message urging us all to become more conscious. Mere speeches, rallies, and verbal support are not sufficient—we must take meaningful action. Standing for humanity, justice, and truth is our ultimate responsibility.
The Triumph of Humanity is the Ultimate Goal
Bangladesh’s culture has always conveyed the message of unity. Here, mutual respect and humanity hold more significance than religious divisions. On the other hand, the people of Palestine are enduring extreme suffering, and what they need from the world is not just sympathy but decisive action.
We must stand for justice, uphold religious harmony, and support the oppressed. Just as Bangladesh has preserved its secular values, every nation and society must take a firm stand for the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people.
Our support for Palestine should not be limited to words; we must actively contribute to their liberation. Only then can humanity triumph, and the oppressed reclaim the freedom they rightfully deserve.
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