Obstruction at freedom fighter Manik Pashari's burial in Pirojpur: GM Quader demands probe and punishment

Golam Mohammad Quader, chairman of one faction of the Jatiya Party (JaPa), has expressed strong condemnation and anger over the obstruction of the janaza and burial of gazette-listed brave freedom fighter Manik Pashari.

In a statement on Monday, 26 October, he said: "This freedom fighter, who testified as a plaintiff in the crimes against humanity case against Maulana Delawar Hossain Sayeedi, could not be buried without hindrance even after his death. This is an extreme insult to the dignity of the Liberation War and human values."

GM Quader said: "According to media information, he was buried late at night under police guard, about 15 hours after his death. The family alleges that as the dug grave was filled with earth, his daughter and two sisters dug the grave themselves by mobile phone light. This scene is not only heartbreaking, it is an ominous sign for the state and society."

Demanding a neutral investigation into the allegations raised against local Jamaat leaders and workers in Pirojpur and punishment for the guilty, he said: "No one has the right to dishonour a dead body or harass a bereaved family because of political vengeance or for testifying in court. This is also extremely contrary to religious values and social harmony."

He said: "The news of giving a 'guard of honour' secretly at the Police Lines is also worrying. Why should the state honour of a brave freedom fighter be given in hiding? Such a situation questions the government's firmness in protecting the dignity of the Liberation War. The administration cannot bow to pressure from any anti-liberation force."

Noting that the responsibility to protect the honour of brave freedom fighters as well as the safety and dignity of all citizens of the country lies with the present government, the JaPa faction chairman said: "The role and negligence of the administration in this incident must be examined. The government cannot avoid this responsibility."

He demanded immediate legal action against those responsible, security for Manik Pashari's grave and family, and protection for all freedom fighter families and witnesses in crimes against humanity cases.

In the statement, he paid deep respect to the departed soul of brave freedom fighter Manik Pashari and expressed deep condolences to the bereaved family. He commented that if the dignity of the final farewell of those who made the country independent cannot be protected, that failure belongs to the whole nation.