Bangladesh's National Award-winning actress and Awami League member, Rokeya Prachi, has been forced into hiding following a violent mob attack. The incident occurred on August 14, 2024, as she was on her way to pay respects to the country's founding father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, on his death anniversary.
Allegations of a Strategic Plan to Fuel Unrest
Speaking to TOI from an undisclosed location, Prachi made serious allegations about the recent wave of violence in Bangladesh. She claimed that the unrest appears to be part of a "strategic plan by the interim government". The alleged objective is to stir up anti-India sentiments within the population. Prachi suggested this strategy aims to help the government retain power while supporting the agendas of fundamentalist elements from Pakistan, Turkiye, and the so-called Deep State.
Prachi, a decade-long member of the ruling Awami League and part of its Relief and Welfare Affairs committee, expressed deep concern for her nation. "We're hearing about people being lynched in daylight. Our nation has been attacked, & we're not doing well," she stated.
A Political Legacy and Escalating Violence
The actress comes from a political family; her father was the president of the Workers' League's Mirpur unit during Bangabandhu's tenure. She began her own political career in 2012 as a trade union member of the Workers' Federation, which was led by former naval minister Shahjahan Khan, who is currently imprisoned.
Prachi emphasized that these "barbaric incidents" have been occurring since August 5, 2024. She pointed out that with social media now active and international humanitarian groups monitoring, the world is watching. She made further claims about the administration under Md Yunus, alleging that criminals responsible for attacks were granted indemnity after he came to power. "They had a large number of arms to attack police stations. More ammunition has come in over the past 16 months," Prachi added.
Questions Over Political Killings and Control
Prachi raised pointed questions about the killing of Osman Hadi in Dhaka. She noted that Hadi's party had limited manpower, yet he was nominated to contest the Dhaka-8 seat against BNP's Mirza Abbas. "Hadi was attacked at a place near Jammat-e-Islami's office. Now the seat is under Jammat's control. BNP is under scanner after Hadi's killing," she explained.
According to her alarming assessment, the ultimate goal is for Jammat-e-Islami to assume office in Bangladesh, a scenario she implied is being facilitated by the current political maneuvers. The situation paints a troubling picture of the political and security climate in the neighbouring country, as described by a prominent cultural and political figure now living in fear.
