Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina stated that Jamaat-Shibir terrorists initially infiltrated the quota reform movement by maintaining a low profile, but later dangerously took the forefront of the movement.
On Sunday (July 28), the Spanish Ambassador to Bangladesh, Gabriel Maria Cestiyaga Ochoa de Chinchucru, met with the Prime Minister at Ganabhaban, where these issues were discussed.
Prime Minister’s Press Secretary Md. Naimul Islam Khan briefed journalists after the meeting.
Sheikh Hasina mentioned that the terrorists attacked facilities that serve the public good, including COVID hospitals, metro rail, expressways, bridge buildings, disaster management buildings, and data centers.
She emphasized that all symbols of development, which provided comfort and convenience to the people, were targeted for destruction.
Regarding the deployment of the military, the Prime Minister noted that the army personnel exhibited the utmost patience in this situation. She also mentioned that about 21 members of her party, the Awami League, were killed in the violence.
Addressing the support for the victims, the Prime Minister stated that aid was provided without considering political affiliations.
Regarding the demands of the quota reform activists, the Prime Minister pointed out that the existence of quotas was suspended by the Supreme Court’s Appellate Division at the peak of their movement, questioning the logical basis of their demands at that time.
Sheikh Hasina highlighted that the government is taking effective measures to support the families of the deceased and provide financial aid and free medical treatment to the injured.
The Spanish Ambassador praised the deployment of the military and the imposition of curfews for peace and prosperity, noting gradual improvements in the situation. He appreciated the steps taken to ensure peace and progress.
He mentioned his difficulty in understanding events due to language barriers but learned about destructive activities from newspapers.
The ambassador also informed that he visited several vandalized sites with Foreign Minister Dr. Hasan Mahmud. He acknowledged that the budget allocation in Bangladesh for education, health, and social security reflects the government’s dedication to public welfare, which many countries lack.
Ambassador-at-Large Mohammad Ziauddin, Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister Md. Tofazzel Hossain Miah and Senior Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Masud Bin Momen were present during the meeting.
