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Articles by Anu Muhammad
Renewed push for open-pit mining in Phulbari ignores hard-earned lessons
This year, I found the people of Phulbari quite angry and vigilant on Phulbari Day on August 26. Just days earlier, the finance minister had spoken about resuming open-pit mining in Phulbari, once again bringing people onto the streets. When Prime Minister Tarique Rahman spoke of open-pit mining again on September 2, it sparked protests, rallies and processions in the area.
There is a sustainable solution to the gas and power crisis
The gas crisis across the country has turned dire. Power outages have increased. The situation in Dhaka is severe, and it is even more critical outside of Dhaka. The situation for households and businesses is grim, and many industries have to shut down production. In this situation, everyone was looking to the government for action. However, nothing is happening.
Public universities must not fall back into partisan control
Universities in Bangladesh, especially the public ones, are facing a new kind of crisis. During the Awami League government’s rule, universities were turned into instruments of authoritarian domination and violence. Vice-chancellors were appointed on the basis of partisan loyalty rather than academic merit, while student dormitories became hubs of intimidation and violence perpetrated by ruling party goons.
Bangladesh’s July 2024 uprisings: Keeping the promise alive requires a vigilant public
July 20, 2026 DHAKA – There is no doubt that the July Mass Uprising marked the beginning of a new chapter in Bangladesh, representing a powerful expression of the people’s enduring capacity for resistance. Before it came the 1969 mass uprising, followed by the 1990 mass uprising. In the years leading up to each of these moments, we repeatedly heard claims of development from the ruling regimes.
Keeping the July uprising’s promise alive needs a vigilant public
There is no doubt that the July Mass Uprising marked the beginning of a new chapter in Bangladesh, representing a powerful expression of the people’s enduring capacity for resistance. Before it came the 1969 mass uprising, followed by the 1990 mass uprising. In the years leading up to each of these moments, we repeatedly heard claims of development from the ruling regimes.
Bangladesh is still trapped in a cycle of injustice
During the Hasina government, one of the biggest sources of public anger was the widespread abuse and repression faced by ordinary people at every level of society, from university campuses to roadside hawkers. Alongside this were countless incidents of enforced disappearance, extrajudicial killings, arbitrary detention, and the use of state power to suppress dissent. The judiciary was effectively brought under political control, leaving courts largely dysfunctional.
It's hard to find another country willing to sign such an agreement with the US
NPA stages a sit-in programme in front of the National Parliament demanding suspension of the US agreement. At a high-level dialogue organised by the American Chamber of Commerce in Bangladesh (AmCham) at the Sheraton Hotel in Dhaka on 28 April, US Ambassador to Bangladesh Brent T. Christensen spoke about the recently signed “Agreement on Reciprocal Trade” (ART) between Bangladesh and the United States.
New textbooks again? We must go for real reform
As the BNP government prepares major revisions to school textbooks for the 2027 academic year, the changes reported by the media once again reveal a familiar pattern—authorities continuing to alter curriculum content, historical narratives, and learning priorities without addressing the deeper structural crisis in education itself.
Border killings and Bangladesh’s diplomatic challenge
The connection between Bangladesh and India is multifaceted, involving a blend of commerce, politics, diplomacy, and cultural ties. Nevertheless, India's dominance introduces complications into this bond. Apart from disputes over water sharing, the recurring tragedy of border killings is perhaps the most sensitive and distressing occurrence that occupies the centre of public discussion.
The expansion of wage labour and the message of May Day
The emergence and development of the wage labourer is deeply linked to the emergence and development of capitalism. The existence and expansion of capitalism are impossible without the growth of the wage-earning class. Therefore, during the Industrial Revolution in Europe, while the capitalists established dominance, the working class was simultaneously formed. The picture was much the same in the United States.
Mob violence: Imposing no punishment implies support
Anu Muhammad's column For long, society has been shaped by politics of authoritarian rule and an economy of plunder. Such systems produce various distortions. An alarming level of intolerance has emerged. There is hostility and aggression toward anything that is different, be it different ideas, identities, genders, or opinions. If others do not conform to how they themselves speak, dress, live their lives, or practice religion, they must be attacked.
Imperative of reviving the spirit and power of the Liberation War
Special article The establishment of Pakistan as a nation state owed much to the people of East Bengal. Yet, from the very outset, the ruling elite of Pakistan subjected these same people to neglect, suspicion, humiliation, exploitation and deprivation. Alongside stark economic disparities, there was the relentless oppression of military authoritarian rule, deep-seated anti-Bengali prejudice, and persistent suspicion and slander regarding the religious identity of Bengali Muslims.
Gangster imperialism and the threat to global peace and security
The way a neighbourhood thug flaunts his power, boasts about violence, bullies at will, harasses, assaults, or kills—while proudly disregarding any law or rule—is eerily similar to what we are now witnessing from the president of the world’s most powerful state and his allies. Their greatest pride lies in possessing the most advanced weapons capable of killing people and destroying nations far beyond their borders.
Global peace and security under threat from worldwide hegemony
Anu Muhammad's column The way a neighborhood drunk thug displays power, boasts about killings and injuries, tortures people at will, and flaunts their disregard for laws, in the same manner, we are now witnessing the President of the world's most powerful nation and his entourage. Their main pride lies in having the most modern weapons for killing people and destroying countries.
A test of democratic renewal
On Thursday, Bangladesh held an acceptable election after 18 years, one in which participation was not curtailed by the state itself. It was not an all-inclusive contest, seeing as the Awami League could not take part in it. However, the circumstances that led to the AL’s absence were of its own making. In the elections of 2014, 2018, and 2024, coercive, manipulative, and strategic tactics employed by the AL kept its rivals largely out of the race.
What is the purpose of signing controversial deals before election?
Opinion Even more troubling is the role played by certain individuals behind these agreements. The excessive enthusiasm displayed by some advisers and special assistants is both unsightly and dangerous; they appear to be acting as lobbyists for foreign corporations. Many of them reside abroad, and questions remain regarding foreign or dual citizenship. Questions have to be asked about the obligations that are driving their haste.
Voters must hold politicians to task over health and education
On January 25, a 20-year-old female patient suffering from kidney and heart complications jumped to her death from the eighth floor of Dhaka Medical College Hospital. The deceased, mother to a four-month-old baby, had been undergoing treatment intermittently for several months, but her family could no longer afford to continue it. Their resources were exhausted. This incident received little media attention.
Why the fate of Venezuela matters to us all
Earlier last week, the Trump administration carried out a military assault on Venezuela, abducting President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, and taking them to New York. There, a series of cases was filed against them, and a judicial farce is being staged in the name of justice. The spectacle of attacking the capital of a sovereign country and forcibly removing its elected president has stunned the world. It offers a chilling glimpse into the kind of global disorder we are living in.
Persistent violence threatens our democratic transition
In the early hours of December 19, horrific attacks were carried out on Prothom Alo and The Daily Star, and later on two cultural organisations, Chhayanaut and Udichi, along with Nalonda School. These incidents mark an unprecedented episode in Bangladesh's recent history. The attackers entered the buildings and deliberately destroyed documents, equipment, and valuable archives. There was widespread looting as well.
Phulbari coal, power crisis, and a dangerous revisionism
Regarding the Phulbari Open-Pit Coal Mining Project, the chief adviser's press secretary recently made a Facebook post suggesting that Bangladesh is facing a severe power crisis because coal at Phulbari was not extracted. He went further, implying that those who resisted the project are responsible for today's dependence on India and the resulting energy insecurity.
COP30, profit over people, and growing climate threats
The United Nations Climate Change Conference, known as COP, held its 30th session in Brazil. It was quite lengthy and expensive, yet at the end of it, the central problem remained: the much-needed transition away from fossil fuels still seems unachievable. Powerful entities continue to place obstacles in the way. There is no denying that we are living through the harsh reality of climate change.
Deals with foreigners on port operations: Govt forcing through agreements
Anu Muhammad's remark A contract was signed on Monday with two foreign companies for the operation of two terminals at Chittagong Port. The agreement was concluded with unusual haste. One section has raised questions about whether an interim government has the authority to sign such contracts, while the government has issued various explanations in response.
Govt pushing these agreements through by force
The key responsibility of an interim government is to steer the country toward democratic transition by ensuring a genuinely fair election. This requires putting the right reforms in place. With the election only months away, the government should be fully focused on preparing for a credible vote. That means stabilizing law and order and rebuilding people’s sense of security. Yet, in these crucial areas, the government shows little attention or initiative.
Maulana Bhasani’s ‘Silence’
The person we know as 'Maulana Bhasani' was not originally named that. Neither of these two words was part of his real name. Both 'Maulana' and 'Bhasani' were titles or epithets he acquired later. 'Maulana' reflected his religious faith and practice, while 'Bhasani' became a symbol of his struggle and rebellion. His life and activities were such that his real name faded behind these titles.
Foreign companies at port and story of turning it into another Singapore
Anu Muhammad's column The interim government is reportedly exerting considerable pressure to lease out the New Mooring Terminal of Chittagong Port to an Abu Dhabi–based company named DP World, without any tender process. Although no agreement has yet been signed, newspapers have reported that officials from the company are already visiting the port. The Chief Adviser has also called for resisting those who oppose the initiative.
U-turn on music, sports education: Win for ‘pressure groups’, loss for our students
TBS Around the world, nations are investing in holistic education, emphasising arts, movement, and emotional intelligence, trying to produce students who are not only academically competent but also socially adaptable and mentally resilient.
Our ports are national assets, not bargaining chips
The interim government seems eager to hand over management of the New Mooring Terminal of the Chattogram port to a company called DP World from Abu Dhabi. Although no formal deal has been signed yet, newspapers report that officials of the company have been visiting the port regularly. In his June 6 speech this year, Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus also urged people to resist those opposing this move.
High growth, increased discrimination and aspirations for change
Over the past five decades, Bangladesh’s socio-economy has undergone a significant capitalist transformation.
It is the government’s responsibility to build trust among voters
Opinion The statement made by the government expressing concern over possible attacks and challenges ahead of the upcoming election was inappropriate. If there is any apprehension of a conspiracy surrounding the election, it is the government’s responsibility to take the necessary measures and build confidence among voters regarding the electoral process. It is the government that must ensure an environment conducive to a free, fair and credible election.
When teachers are attacked and workers die, who takes responsibility?
Two deeply disturbing incidents occurred last week. In one, teachers took to the streets with minor demands but were met with police violence instead of dialogue. The situation remains uncertain at the time of writing this column on Friday evening. The other incident is that of the fire in Mirpur's Rupnagar. Despite repeated warnings and recommendations for reform, safety measures in factories are still not ensured. Once again, we have witnessed a factory fire and casualties.
The interim government’s troubling continuity
When the interim government took office in the aftermath of the mass uprising last year, the people of Bangladesh hoped to see a genuine change in perspective—a visible shift in certain areas. For instance, we expected a transition from irregularities in government administration to a system governed by rules; from secrecy and opacity to transparency and accountability. We hoped for financial discipline in place of corruption and waste.
Badruddin Umar A tribute
Teacher, comrade, and lifelong revolutionary Badruddin Umar (20 December 1931 – 7 September 2025) is no more. We offer him our deepest respect and love. Alongside this, on behalf of the people of Bangladesh, we convey our gratitude — for he devoted his entire life, thought, and activism to the cause of the people.
Violence, discrimination, and the failure to reform
The grounds for a historic mass uprising in the country last year was laid by many factors over the years. Among them were an authoritarian rule, a thoroughly repressive regime, total surveillance over people, and severe restrictions on freedom of expression. Elections became a farcical exercise. Courts, police, and universities—these institutions ceased to function as they should, operating instead under orders from above.
Student union elections: Rescuing the universities from decline
After many years, student union elections are going to be held in Dhaka, Jahangirnagar, and Rajshahi universities. This is a good development, and I hope the elections will be fair and free from violence or intimidation, and the students will be able to participate in them safely. If student unions in all universities are formed through credible elections regularly, genuine young leadership will be able to emerge in the country.
The unfinished journey of Drohojatra
In the face of the people's collective power, the coercive tools of the state—police, law, curfews, propaganda, RAB, military, Section 144—become powerless. When people take to the streets with unity and determination, these mechanisms collapse. That moment of truth—when fear is cast aside and resistance becomes collective—is what we call a mass uprising.
Why conduct fighter jet training in a densely populated area?
Opinion No role of Health Adviser Nurjahan Begum was seen on Monday after the plane crash. She has been inactive before as well. And yet, health is a very important sector. I do not understand why she has been appointed as a health adviser. The victims of the aircraft crash at Milestone School and College in the capital are mostly children who went to their school for study. The entire nation is shaken by the incident. We even had to see our children that way.
The rise of collective power in Bangladesh
THE July people’s uprising was the result of many years of built-up grievances. Through this movement, the people of Bangladesh expressed their protest using a language shaped by long-standing discontent. We have seen many times before that when people’s dissatisfaction reaches a breaking point, they rise up. This was evident during the Language Movement of 1952, which eventually led to the fall of the Muslim League in 1954.
July uprising and the rise of collective power
The July people's uprising was the result of many years of built-up grievances. Through this movement, the people of Bangladesh expressed their protest using a language shaped by long-standing discontent. We have seen many times before that when people's dissatisfaction reaches a breaking point, they rise up. This was evident during the Language Movement of 1952, which eventually led to the fall of the Muslim League in 1954.
We're witnessing the barbaric face of a global (dis)order
Although Israel attacked Iran last week, a sense of trepidation about the possibility of that happening had gripped the public psyche for a long time. Yet, when it happened, there was this disbelief: surely Israel wouldn't go that far, or be that reckless or horrific? And of course, people thought about the US, Israel's main supporter and greatest source of power.
Reforms are heard of everywhere, but nothing to be seen
Opinion Reforms were our biggest expectation from the post-uprising government. The government and persons associated with the government continually talk about carrying out reforms. But what do we actually see? Till now they haven't made it clear what exactly are the reforms they want to carry out in the areas of politics and the economy. Many of the reform commission have submitted those reports, but we see no tangible action about even the implementable recommendations in those reports.
Interim govt losing sight of public mandate
After this government came to power through a historic mass uprising, big expectations naturally followed. This is an interim government, with limited powers and tenure, we are all aware of that. And knowing this, society has developed expectations in line with the spirit of the uprising, focusing on what can realistically be achieved and what new paths might be forged. What we demand of them are actionable measures, tasks that are feasible and within their scope.
Men’s fear and women's 'just rights'
"Whenever the question of women's rights arises, excuses like religion or culture are used to stop it. Why?" This question was asked by a young woman from a Catholic family in Argentina. On another occasion, the same question came from a Sudanese Muslim woman. I am sure the same question exists in the minds of countless women in Bangladesh, too. Everywhere—in homes, on the streets, in religious places—a number of men are eager to bring up religion whenever a women's issue comes up.
Cruel kinship
A horrifying and almost unbelievable tragedy is unfolding in Palestine. What we are witnessing today is not new. It is the continuation of decades of suffering, oppression, and genocide that began long before many of us were even born. This long-standing injustice includes occupation, systematic displacement, and recurring waves of violent attacks. And since October 2023, a particularly brutal new phase of violence has emerged. This time, the scale and intent are chilling.
Israel's war in Gaza: An alliance that threatens global peace
A horrifying and almost unbelievable tragedy is unfolding in Palestine. What we are witnessing today is not new. It is the continuation of decades of suffering, oppression, and genocide that began long before many of us were even born. This long-standing injustice includes occupation, systematic displacement, and recurring waves of violent attacks. Since October 2023, a particularly brutal new phase of violence has emerged. This time, the scale and intent are chilling.
The road to liberation: March 1971 and the years that led to it
54 Years of Bangladesh's Independence The Liberation War of Bangladesh, which officially began in March 1971, had its roots in events that unfolded many years earlier. The people of what is now Bangladesh played a key role in the establishment of Pakistan, primarily through their votes. They joined the Pakistan movement with the hope that the new state, founded on religious lines, would rise above communal conflicts and emerge as a true democracy.
Government inaction fuels discriminatory oppression of women
Commentary The oppression of women is a stark manifestation of hegemony and systemic discrimination in society. Whenever opportunities for dominance and coercion grow, violence against women rises in tandem. Today, a particular group is exhibiting discriminatory politics, ideology, and culture - systematically attacking shrines, persecuting women, and spreading misogyny. The government’s inaction against these forces has only emboldened them.
Tawki killing: Why have the killers not been tried in 12 years?
Anu Muhammad's column It was 6 March 2013. Tawki was picked up by killers of a criminal gang while he was on his way to the Sudhijan Library in Narayanganj. They were led by a son of the notorious Osman family, known as the mafia of the area. They assaulted the boy in such a manner, that it is hard to bear just listening to the details. At one point the boy died and they dumped him into the river Shitalakkhya. What was this young boy's fault?
India’s influence and the quest for a democratic South Asia
During British rule, present-day India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh were part of the same colonial structure: British India. Therefore, we have a shared history of resistance against British imperialism, where the people of the subcontinent fought together, bound by common aspirations and cultural connections.
Imperialism, war, and the fight for a just world
4 hours ago “What’s Considered Trashy If You’re Poor, But Classy If You’re Rich?” (58 Answers) You know how some outfits look great on some people but worse on others, even though they’re more or less the same build, age, and the outfit is … 16 hours ago 12 Most Progressive Cities In The US That Feel Like Home For Liberals The dust is finally settling on another eventful political season.
Imperialism, war, and the fight for a just world
World Day of Social Justice Since 2009, the World Day of Social Justice has been observed on February 20 with the goal of raising awareness and promoting efforts to combat social exclusion, poverty, and unemployment. It primarily focuses on promoting global harmony among people, reducing inequality, alleviating poverty, and establishing a fair social system.
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