Prepare list of victims killed under AL regime: CA

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus has ordered the authorities concerned to compile a comprehensive list of individuals killed in political violence carried out by the Awami League (AL), its student wing Chhatra League, and in state force-led operations under government orders over the past 15 years.

"A list will be prepared of those killed in attacks by the Awami League and its affiliated organisations prior to the July uprising, and each incident will be investigated," the chief adviser said on Thursday during a meeting with the family of slain BUET student Abrar Fahad.

During the meeting, Abrar Fahad's family requested a comprehensive investigation into all incidents of political violence carried out by Awami League-backed groups in which individuals were killed prior to the July uprising.

They also called for justice in Abrar's murder case, which has been pending trial for nearly five years.

"My son was brutally beaten to death by terrorists simply for speaking up for the country. He protested the unequal sharing of water resources," said Abrar's father, Mohammad Barkat Ullah.

"His mother still cries out in pain. No other mother should have to suffer such a loss - no mother's lap should remain empty," he added.

Mr Barkat also requested government support for the construction of a bridge over the Gorai River in Kushtia, citing long-standing local demands. "Around 30,000 people are suffering due to the absence of a bridge," he said.

Abrar's younger brother, Abrar Faiyaz, a third-year student at BUET, urged the  government to make educational institutions more student-friendly. "Our institutions still lack adequate laboratories, equipment, and academic facilities," he said. "We have high expectations from the interim government and hope it will take concrete steps to address these shortcomings."

He also demanded strict action against ragging, particularly at BUET. "This was not the first instance of abuse on campus. Similar incidents have occurred before and need to be properly investigated. Justice must be ensured," Faiyaz added.

In response, Chief Adviser Yunus assured the family of swift action. "The brutal murder of Abrar Fahad shocked the entire nation. Justice will be served. A list of those killed in political attacks and state-led violence before the July 24 uprising is being compiled, and each case will be investigated," he said.

Prof Yunus added that investigations are already underway into killings committed by state forces under directives of the then government. "The government has taken necessary steps in this regard," he said.

mirmostafiz@yahoo.com