Ensure use of Bangla at all levels, says Jamaat ameer

Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer and Leader of the Opposition Shafiqur Rahman on Thursday called for observance of the Ekushey February -- the Language Martyrs' Day and International Mother Language Day -- with due dignity and solemnity.
He also stressed the need to ensure the use of Bangla at all levels of state and social life and to protect and promote the country's language and culture to realise the aspirations of the martyrs.
In a statement, the Jamaat chief described the 21st February as a glorious day in the nation's history.
Recalling the 1952 Language Movement, he said students and youths had launched a historic movement demanding recognition of Bangla as a state language in defiance of the then authorities.
On February 21, 1952, law enforcement agencies opened fire on peaceful demonstrators, killing a number of protesters, including students of the University of Dhaka.
Shafiqur said the supreme sacrifice of the language martyrs in establishing the dignity of Bangla would be remembered with reverence for generations.
He noted that the day is now globally recognised as International Mother Language Day, symbolising international respect and recognition for the martyrs.
Referring to the current political context, he said the nation would observe the day this year just after a new government led by BNP assumed office.
He, however, alleged that associates of the "fallen fascism" were still attempting to destabilise the country, urging people to remain united to thwart any conspiracy.
He expressed the hope that the government under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman would ensure democracy, rule of law, human rights, voting rights and freedom of expression, and create an environment where citizens could move freely with security of life, property and dignity.

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