DU students burn effigy of Modi, hurl shoes in protest

A group of students at Dhaka University staged a protest on Tuesday evening, burning an effigy of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, trampling his photograph and throwing shoes at it, accusing him of “interfering” in Bangladesh’s Victory Day and tarnishing the occasion.

The protest was held in front of Madhur Canteen under the banner of “Anti-Imperialism Students’ Front.” 

Riyadul Islam Zubah, one of the organizers, criticized Modi and his supporters, calling them “agents of the fascist Gujarat regime” who, he claimed, sold out country’s independence and sovereignty, despite the sacrifices made by the nation’s people.

Zubah further alleged that since 1971, the Indian military has been involved in mass killings, looting and cross-border violence in Bangladesh. 

He accused Modi of orchestrating covert operations to destabilize the country, citing incidents like Pilkhana and other acts that, according to him, aim to turn Bangladesh into a failed state.

The organizer also accused local collaborators of carrying out violent activities in the country, mentioning alleged attacks on figures such as Abrar Fahad, Felani and Osman Hadi. 

He condemned Modi for committing atrocities against minorities in India, including arson, killings, enforced disappearances and sexual violence.

The protest concluded with the burning of effigy, trampling of Modi’s photograph, and throwing of shoes adorned with garlands at the image.

SH