As Bangladesh grapples with ongoing violent clashes between quota reform protesters and Bangladesh Chhatra League (BCL) activists, prominent celebrities have taken a strong stance alongside students and job seekers from both public and private universities and colleges.
The quota reform movement initially concentrated among public university students and job seekers saw a surge on Tuesday as private university students joined the protests. They blocked roads across the country in response to alleged attacks by BCL activists on Monday, which left over 250 students injured.
Celebrities have taken to social media to condemn the violence and express solidarity with the protesters.
Early on Tuesday, Salman Muqtadir posted on Facebook, "Is there any student who has been attacked or cannot enter their dorm? I will look out for you. However, I cannot filter through thousands of messages or posts. So, check for any mutual friends on my friend list and knock me."
He added, "I am sorry that this is the most I can do right now. If you need a place to stay or require medical services, I am here. I just watched some videos where students cannot enter their dorms and if this is not enough then I apologise again. My heart is truly broken and I am embarrassed. I feel ashamed that despite being popular, I am of no use."
Young singer Tasrif Khan, known for his band "Kureghor," also spoke out amidst the ongoing crisis. On Sunday, he posted on his verified Facebook page, "Students are entirely justified in wanting their talents to be recognised. If this minimum demand is not met, there can be no greater misfortune."
Earlier, on July 5, he wrote, "My uncle is a freedom fighter (Bir Protik). We all have and always will have complete respect, gratitude, and love for the freedom fighters who gave us independent Bangladesh. Look, in our country, even after completing their studies, there are relatively fewer job opportunities for the talented. If we cannot properly value our talents in this situation, it will be a great misfortune for us."
Director Mishuk Moni, known for the film "Deyaler Desh," posted on Facebook on Monday, "These scenes bring immense sorrow to the city. Opposing freedom fighters is not the same as opposing the freedom fighters' quota. In this country, speaking against the government labels you a traitor. Criticising any government official's corruption also makes you a traitor. Participating in a movement for rightful demands makes you a traitor."
He added, "Today, BCL activists, wearing helmets and armed with sticks, injured students in the quota reform movement. Why? The government could have sent representatives to negotiate with the students."
Filmmaker and actor Khijir Hayat Khan also condemned the violence, writing on his Facebook on Monday, "The response to the movement for fair rights cannot be through violence. If that is the case, then this country belongs only to you, and we are no one. Shame."
Popular content creator Rs Fahim Chowdhury wrote on his Facebook on Tuesday, "Before thinking about religion, tribe, or party, think of yourself as a human being. Those you are hurting, thinking them to be innocent, are someone’s sister or brother. May Allah protect everyone and let youth prevail."
