Be the change you want to see

Optimism is permeating the nation like the beautiful fragrance flowers emit on misty mornings. The student-led mass revolution that led to the downfall of the Sheikh Hasina regime has united the nation in hope and optimism that was never seen before. An interim government headed by Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus is fueling that hope. The people in general have welcomed the historical change with open arms and view it as a pivotal moment for the nation, whether it will herald a new era of prosperity and happiness or ultimately fizzle out, remains to be seen. The 17-member interim government has already hit the ground running as they are faced with the monumental task of restoring law and order, reviving democratic institutions and economy, and paving the way for free and fair elections.

Meanwhile, the students who organised the protests, defied authorities, broke barriers in the name of equality, freedom, and justice, and led the revolution through the five weeks of bloodshed, pain, and fear are now literally in charge of the country. They've become the kingpins with another agenda to push: reforming the state.

In a country like Bangladesh, where about 30 per cent of the population is young, the future doesn't just depend on them-it rests entirely in their hands. Not a single sphere of life exists where hopes are not pinned on them. Whether in politics, education, invention, or any other thing, young people are expected to lead the way, breaking the status quo, and ushering in change.

To an outsider, it might appear students are taking on tasks not intended for them, and they would be right. The reality, however, is that decades of mismanagement have forced them to take action not only as the nation's last hope, but to safeguard their own future that was rapidly becoming perilous. Their presence as responsible citizen is now felt everywhere-from cleaning roads and managing traffic to monitoring markets, combating extortion, and shaping state policies. Many feel there are now reasons to be hopeful for the future as they witness the transformative power of the youth in Bangladesh.

Their activism has already brought some much-needed relief to consumers who have been battered by the rising cost of living for years. Students are monitoring markets, asking traders not to pay tolls to anyone and not to make extra profit. Their bold and vibrant presence has driven away extortionists who used to collect tolls from traders, goods-laden vehicles and public transports. As a result, prices of some essential commodities and vegetables have declined. It is heartening to see that the absence of extortionists has not only benefited consumers but has also improved the overall business environment in the market.

It is worth mentioning that following the departure of extortionists from the previous regime, another group allegedly attempted to muscle-in and take over the extortion racket. Young college and university students, however, are determined in their goal to protect their hard-earned victory for the benefit of the people. 

Transport fares have also decreased on some routes. Students are requesting transport operators to lower the fare since they don't have to pay tolls to unscrupulous entities along the route anymore. Since these illegal toll collections have ceased, students are now directly engaging with passengers, urging them not to pay a single taka extra and to inform them if anyone charges a higher fare.

The emergence of student-led traffic management, market monitoring, and extortion-busting initiatives underscores the potential for community-driven solutions to longstanding problems. Students, however, cannot be expected to perform these tasks forever. But their initiatives should carry lessons for law enforcement and market monitoring agencies. The authorities must maintain this momentum and ensure that the hard-earned gains are not eroded by unscrupulous elements. If the authorities responsible for doing these tasks learn any lesson from the students' movement and build upon their success, it will deliver lasting benefits to the people.

The message of the revolution is clear: things must change. Students are actively using city and suburban walls as canvases to express their thoughts, principles, and aspirations. Thus graffiti has become a powerful tool for students to convey their message of building a new Bangladesh free from corruption, extortion, and abuse of power. For instance, one piece of graffiti reads, "Bribery must be stopped," along with the call, "Police must serve the public." Another asks a million-dollar question the nation has been pondering: "Who is the alternative?" with the resounding response, "You and Me."

There is no going back and the members of the new generation will continue to fight for their rights, justice, equality, and liberty. The younger generation can be a catalyst to trigger change, but true and lasting transformation will only occur when everyone commits to change collectively 

For this to happen, it is necessary to critically examine social values. For example, is honesty genuinely valued, or is achieving the end goal by any means deemed more important? Honesty pays off, no doubt, but only if it is embraced by all of society. If only the students are honest, while others are not, it won't be effective. For lasting change to take root in the country, society must transform its behaviour, attitudes, and values. It is easy to blame politicians for every wrong in the country, but they ultimately reflect the mindset of society. Let us all share responsibility for some of these problems and acknowledge our role in addressing and changing them. Be the change you want to see.

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