University Teachers' Network calls for actions to curb intolerant, aggressive activities
They also demanded clarity on government policies and measures to ensure an inclusive society
The University Teachers' Network, a platform for private and public university teachers, called upon the government to take decisive action to curb the intolerance of extremist groups that are spreading hate speech and targeting individuals and communities with different identities.
In an open letter to the chief advisor, the organisation also demanded clarity on government policies and measures to ensure an inclusive society.
Professor Gitiara Nasreen, a member of the organisation, read out the open letter at a press conference held at the Dhaka University Club today (28 September).
In the open letter, the University Teachers' Network expressed deep concern over the surge in intolerant, aggressive, and anarchist gatherings across the country.
"Just weeks after the mass uprising, these gatherings have witnessed not only hateful rhetoric against marginalised groups but also violent attacks on individuals and communities," reads the letter.
The letter highlighted the loss of three lives in "organised violence" at three universities.
Additionally, it stated that an army officer was killed while apprehending criminals, and people of different ethnicities have been killed in the Chittagong Hill Tracts.
"Attacks on shrines, temples, industrial establishments, Bauls, and Ahmadiyyas have further exacerbated the situation," added the letter.
The Teachers' Network warned that if this trend continues, citizens' insecurity will escalate, and the government will face an even more challenging task in overcoming the crisis.
The network emphasised the need for a clear declaration from the government outlining its plans to ensure an inclusive society and protect the rights of people with diverse opinions and backgrounds from the violence of organised mobs.
Other members of the network were also present to answer questions from the media.
They said copies of the open letter will be sent to the home, education, law, religion, and defence advisers.