Dhaka: Writers, academics, and journalists at a book review event today emphasized the importance of creating a conducive environment in the nation that allows for the practice of diverse opinions and the complete freedom of expression for writers. The event, organized by Bangiya Sahitya Sabha, took place at Bangla Academy and revolved around the book ‘Shadhinota Ganotantro Manobadhikar/ Awami Leaguer Shasonamole Bangladesh 2009-2023’ by writer and journalist Ehasan Mahamud.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the speakers highlighted the lack of freedom of speech, democracy, and human rights over the past 16 years under what they described as a fascist regime, during which writers and publishers faced fatal consequences for their work. The book, which compiles Ehasan Mahamud’s columns published in Dainik Samakal between 2022 and 2023, presents the oppression faced by the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and its efforts to survive politically with grassroots support.
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nd Climate Change Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan, Daily Samakal Advisory Editor Abu Sayeed Khan, Prothom Alo Joint Editor Sohrab Hassan, Netra News Chief Editor Tasneem Khalil, Dhaka University Professor Dr. Gitiara Nasreen, and writer Parsa Sanjana Sajid were among those who participated in the event. BSS Managing Director and Chief Editor Mahbub Morshed was also present.
Abu Sayeed Khan reflected on the inability of the populace to express varied opinions during the past regime but noted the successful uprising in July-August that ousted the ruler with widespread public participation. He called for a democratic environment where diverse opinions can flourish and urged the government to uphold the people’s aspirations.
Syeda Rizwana Hasan remarked that during the previous regime, only those aligned with a certain political party enjoyed freedom, and dissenters were labeled anti-liberation. She described the regime as a family dynasty masquerading as governance, where human rights were not respected, and empha
sized the need for reforms to ensure free and fair elections.
Prothom Alo Joint Editor Sohrab Hassan and DU Professor Gitiara Nasreen echoed the sentiment, stressing the need for a society that values freedom and does not resort to violence over differences in religion, power, or ideology. They called for collaboration among political parties, journalists, and civil society to support the implementation of reforms that prevent the resurgence of authoritarianism, ensuring freedom, democracy, and human rights remain upheld.