Bangladesh violence targets 1971 war memorial; Shashi Tharoor demands THIS

On August 12, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor expressed outrage over the destruction of a prominent sculpture at the 1971 war memorial complex in Mujibnagar, Bangladesh. The sculpture, which commemorates the historic moment of the Pakistani Army's surrender to Indian forces, was shown in a state of ruin through 'before and after' images posted by Tharoor on his official X (formerly Twitter) account.

Tharoor criticized the 'anti-India vandals' responsible for the attack, which targeted cultural centers, temples, and Hindu homes in Bangladesh. He called upon Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, who currently leads the interim government in Bangladesh, to restore law and order amidst the widespread violence that has erupted due to protests against government job quotas. Tharoor emphasized, "...Such anarchic excess can never be condoned."

Significance of damaged sculpture

The damaged sculpture was a replica of a famous photograph capturing the formal surrender of Pakistani forces to Indian troops. Its destruction has been particularly alarming to those who view it as a symbol of the shared history and cooperation between India and Bangladesh.

Political turmoil in Bangladesh

The turmoil in Bangladesh escalated following the resignation and escape of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on August 5. As protesters advanced towards her residence in Dhaka, Hasina fled the country, initially heading to New Delhi before seeking asylum in an undisclosed location in India.

Hasina's resignation came after weeks of intense protests against government job quotas. Her administration's severe response to the demonstrations led to numerous casualties as security forces clashed with protesters. Known for her friendly stance towards India, Hasina's departure marks a significant shift in Bangladesh's political landscape.

Potential shift in Bangladeshi politics

With Sheikh Hasina's exit, her political rival Khaleda Zia is anticipated to make a political comeback. Unlike Hasina, Zia is not widely perceived as pro-India, which may lead to changes in the bilateral relations between Bangladesh and India.