Protesters in Birampur demand energy security and full implementation of Phulbari agreement
Photo Collected
BIRAMPUR, Dinajpur — Activists from the Democratic Rights Committee held a rally and campaign march in Birampur on Tuesday to demand energy sector reforms, the full implementation of the Phulbari Agreement, and the cancellation of proposed agreements with the United States.
The demonstration took place at Dhaka More in the Birampur municipal area as part of a campaign journey originating from Dhaka, which aims to highlight ongoing crises in the gas and electricity sectors while opposing the privatization of state-owned enterprises. Participants distributed leaflets, delivered speeches, and performed songs to engage local residents and passersby.
During the rally, Mahtab Uddin, a member of the Democratic Rights Committee, voiced concerns over foreign influence, calling for an end to border killings and the immediate cancellation of power deals with the Adani Group. He also demanded a fair share of water from the Teesta River and the revocation of the Rampal power project agreement. Uddin alleged that recent geopolitical proposals prioritize American hegemony over national sovereignty, asserting that the Bangladeshi public would reject any form of foreign domination.
Energy expert Mahbub Suman criticized recent government statements regarding the potential resumption of open-pit coal mining in Phulbari. He argued that such projects would provide no tangible benefit to the local population. Instead, Suman advocated for a transition away from coal-dependent power, urging the government to address the electricity crisis by prioritizing renewable energy sources and optimizing existing alternatives.
The protest march is scheduled to conclude on Wednesday to mark Phulbari Mass Uprising Day. Commemorative activities are expected to begin with tributes to Tarikul, Salekin, and Amin, who are recognized as martyrs of the movement.
The event saw attendance from various political and social leaders, including Tajul Islam of the Communist Party of Bangladesh; Aminul Farid, a representative from Bogra district; Harun-ur-Rashid; and Mahtab Uddin Ahmed. Other notable participants included Monir Hossain of the Bangladesh Samyabadi Andolan, Shahnawaz Firoz of the North Bengal Krishak Mancha, and representatives from the Socialist Student Front, the Bangladesh Students Union, the Hill Students Council, and the Bangladesh Revolutionary Communist League.
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