Dhaka: Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed today categorically stated that there will be no ‘mob culture’ in Bangladesh. The minister also warned that programs like road blockades will not be tolerated in the name of pressing for demands. The Home Minister made these remarks in response to a supplementary question posed by independent lawmaker Rumeen Farhana (Brahmanbaria-2) during a question-answer session in the House.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Rumeen Farhana highlighted in her question that there had been a culture of disappearances, extra-judicial killings, and torture in custody for over 15 years during what she described as the fascist Awami League regime. Responding to these concerns, the Home Minister emphasized that since taking office, no mob incidents have occurred and called for a redefinition of what constitutes a ‘mob.’
Salahuddin further elaborated, questioning whether incidents such as the attack on Palashbari police station in Gaibandha, the attack on a member of Parliament on February 21, or the closure of shops in Uttara could truly be classified as mob activities. He suggested that these were organized and planned crimes, for which cases are filed and investigations conducted.
He asserted, “But, one thing is clear.there will be no mob culture in Bangladesh. We will never allow the trend of blocking highways on the roads to press home for demands, which was seen during the interim government.” The minister stressed that demands should be made through democratic processes and relevant authorities, and that public gatherings or seminars could be held. However, the practice of blocking roads as a form of protest must end.