University Teachers’ Network urges govt action to curb intolerance, hate speech
They also demanded clarity on government policies and measures to ensure an inclusive society
The University Teachers' Network, a platform of private and public university teachers, called upon the government to take decisive action to curb intolerance and hate speech targeting individuals and communities.
In an open letter to the chief adviser of the interim government, the association also demanded clarity on government policies and measures to ensure an inclusive society. Copies of the letter will be sent to the home, education, law, religion, and defense advisers.
Professor Gitiara Nasreen, a member of the association, read out the letter at a press conference held at the Dhaka University Club on Saturday.
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In the letter, the Network expressed deep concern over the surge in intolerant, aggressive, and anarchist gatherings across the country.
"Just weeks after the mass uprising, not only these gatherings have witnessed hateful rhetoric against marginalised groups, violent attacks have been launched on individuals and communities," it reads.
The letter highlighted the loss of three lives in "organised violence" at three universities.
Additionally, it stated that an army officer was killed while apprehending criminals, and people of different ethnicities have been killed in the Chittagong Hill Tracts.
"Attacks on shrines, temples, industrial establishments, Bauls, and Ahmadiyyas have further exacerbated the situation," the letter adds.
The Network warned that if this trend continues, citizens' insecurity will escalate, and the government will face an even more challenging task in overcoming the crisis.
Responding to a question from journalists regarding student politics in universities, DU Professor Rushad Faridi said, "Student-teacher politics is not a problem, as long as there is rule of law, accountability and fair justice in the university and the country."
However, the political activities of Chhatra League do not align with the concept of student politics, he added.
Jahangirnagar University Professor Saeed Ferdous said, "We are not against politics. But we are definitely against intolerance, hatred and occupation in the name of politics."
Other members of the association were also present at the press conference.
