Dhaka University’s (DU) Vice Chancellor (VC) Prof Dr AAMS Arefin Siddique on Tuesday urged the government to cut all diplomatic relations with Pakistan for interfering in Bangladesh’s domestic affairs like war crimes trials.

“Pakistani’s attack on Bangalees in 1971 was against the world’s civilization. Its statement over the ongoing trial of the war criminals is blatant interference in our domestic affairs,” DU VC said.  

He made the demand after paying tributes to the Shikha Chiranton at Suhrawardy Udyan in the capital.

With a theme- “Judhaporadhi Mukto Bangladesh Chai’, Dhaka University (DU) authorities organised the Bijoy rally to welcome December, the month of victory.

Pakistan on Monday summoned the acting high commissioner of Bangladesh, and denied committing any war crimes or atrocities during the 1971 War of Independence. It has also rejected as ‘baseless.

“After this, there is no scope to maintain the diplomatic relation with Pakistan and our government should sever all diplomatic ties with the country,” he said.

Terming Pakistan as a ‘terrorist state’, DU VC said the government should also appeal to the United Nations and SAARC to cancel Pakistan’s membership as the country was involved in several misdeeds against the spirit of these organisations.

Responding to a query, he said, “We are determined from now on that we will not send any student representatives from our university to visit Pakistan until the country makes apology for its remarks over the war crimes trial.”

When asked if any representative of Pakistan wants to visit DU, the VC said, “We will consider (if any request comes).” he said.

Earlier in the morning, Teachers, students and officials of the Dhaka University (DU) brought out a victory procession from at the altar of the Oparajyea Bangla on the DU campus and ended at the Shikha Chiranton at Suhrawardy Udyan after parading important points on the area.

Meanwhile, Bangladesh Shishu Academy also brought out a gala procession to welcome the victory month December. The rally marched towards the central Saheed Minar in the capital from the academy premises.  

Speaking at a short rally, state minister for Women and children affairs Meher Afroz Chumki said that the government would build an enriched nation through the execution of all war criminals.
Shishu academy director Mosharof Hossen was also present at the rally.

AK/RI