The interim government of Bangladesh has removed the title of ‘Father of the Nation’ and ‘Bangabandhu’ Sheikh Mujibur Rahman from the National Freedom Fighter Council (Jamuka) Act through a new ordinance. Under this amendment, the definition of freedom struggle has also been changed, which no longer mentions Mujibur Rahman’s call for freedom.
Earlier, Bangladesh’s central bank issued new currency notes, which do not have a picture of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. This is the first time his image has been removed from the currency, causing political and social debate in the country.
However, the government has clarified that the recognition of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s ‘freedom fighter’ has not been canceled. This explanation came after the concerns that arose due to the amendments made in the Jamuka Act.
There are sharp reactions at the political and social level in the country regarding these changes. Supporters of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina have criticized these steps, while the interim government says it is an attempt to present history from a wider and fair perspective.
Amidst these events, there is a state of instability and division in Bangladesh politics. The interim government is facing allegations of rewriting history and running political agenda, while the government claims that the move has been taken to present the history of the country as a balanced manner.
This development begins a new discourse regarding the national identity and history of Bangladesh, which may have an impact on the politics and society of the country in the coming time.
