Chief Adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus has stressed the need for presenting the true history of Bangladesh’s Liberation War without political bias.
Speaking at a meeting held Monday afternoon at the State Guest House Jamuna, Yunus urged the Ministry of Liberation War Affairs to focus on objective documentation and avoid political slants in its activities.
Allegations of Misrepresentation
Liberation War Affairs Adviser Faruk E Azam said that significant sums had been spent by the ministry in the past to construct memorials and installations. But, according to him, many of these projects reflected a distorted version of history.
“These structures often ignore real battlefield accounts and the voices of freedom fighters,” he said. “They revolve around exaggerated portrayals centered on a single family, using images and personal memorabilia.”
One example cited during the meeting was a research initiative titled Implementation of Bangabandhu’s Ideals and the Spirit of the Liberation War, which had a budget allocation of Tk23 crore. Faruk claimed that despite the large budget, the results were insubstantial.
Concerns Over Politicization
Faruk also alleged that Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina politicized the welfare of freedom fighters by turning them into what he called a “privileged class.” He said that benefits and resources meant for them were influenced by political affiliations.
“Infrastructure intended for freedom fighters has been used for political activities,” he added. “And many valuable assets under the Freedom Fighter Welfare Trust remain unprotected and mismanaged.”
Immediate Action Ordered
In response to the concerns, Yunus instructed the immediate appointment of a consultant and formation of a follow-up committee. The aim, he said, is to evaluate how the assets under the Freedom Fighter Welfare Trust can be used more effectively.
“We must define the trust’s role clearly,” he said. “We need to explore what kind of enterprises can be developed on its properties. The trust has to be revitalized.”
He also called for strict oversight to ensure future ministry projects reflect historical accuracy and respect for all those who participated in the Liberation War.
What’s Next
A brief on recent activities and a six-month plan were shared by the ministry. Though specifics weren’t revealed, the tone pointed to greater openness and collaboration ahead.
Whether reforms will move quickly or old projects get reassessed remains uncertain. What’s clear for now is a push to start fresh with a sharper direction.
