BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi has launched a scathing critique against a segment of intellectuals, accusing them of appeasing fascist regimes during critical junctures in the nation's history. Speaking as the chief guest at a seminar titled 'Crisis of Bangladeshi Culture: Searching for the Essence,' held at the Shilpakala Academy, Rizvi emphasized the need for intellectual integrity in the face of political and cultural challenges.
Drawing historical parallels, Rizvi remarked that just as prominent intellectuals once aligned themselves with Adolf Hitler, a similar trend was observed in Bangladesh during the rise of fascism. He lamented that while the nation witnessed enforced disappearances, extrajudicial killings, and the systematic erosion of voting rights, these intellectuals remained silent. He contrasted this with 'patriotic intellectuals,' whom he described as those who consistently stand by the common people and speak the truth regardless of the consequences.
Addressing the issue of cultural aggression, the BNP leader warned that a systematic and subtle campaign is underway to undermine the nation's cultural identity. He alleged that imperialist forces are attempting to alter the fundamental structure of the Bengali language by replacing long-practiced terminology with foreign-imposed concepts. According to Rizvi, this is not merely a linguistic shift but a calculated effort to weaken the national consciousness.
Despite these concerns, Rizvi expressed confidence in the resilience of the Bangladeshi people. He reminded the audience of the nation's historic struggle for language rights, noting that the spirit of sacrifice is deeply embedded in the blood of the populace. He asserted that the people possess an inherent, invisible strength to resist any form of cultural encroachment, regardless of the complexity of the conspiracies involved.
Furthermore, Rizvi touched upon historical narratives, questioning the depth of the 19th-century 'Bengal Renaissance.' He argued that it was not a comprehensive movement but rather an endeavor that served the interests of a specific elite class. He concluded his address by urging intellectuals and cultural activists to abandon the path of sycophancy and instead uphold the values of truth and justice, emphasizing that the protection of national culture and heritage is a collective responsibility.
