DE Online Desk:
In a powerful show of solidarity with the oppressed people of Gaza, student leaders from Dhaka University and other educational institutions across Bangladesh have called for a nationwide shutdown on Monday (April 7).
The initiative, titled ‘No Work, No School,’ aims to protest the ongoing brutal genocide and destruction in the Gaza Strip and align with a global movement demanding an end to the atrocities against Palestinians.
The programme includes strikes in educational institutions and workplaces nationwide, alongside protests and solidarity rallies in the capital and other cities. This follows a global call for action by Palestinian activists urging schools, colleges, universities, offices, and courts to shut down simultaneously to demand an immediate halt to the genocide.
Nationwide call for solidarity
On Sunday (April 6), two organisers of the ‘Ban Awami League Movement,’ Musaddiq Ali Ibn Mohammad and AB Jobair, urged citizens to ensure the success of the programme across the country. Later, former president of Dhaka University unit Islami Chhatra Shibir, Abu Sadiq Qayem, took to Facebook to rally support, emphasizing the need for collective action.
In his post, Qayem wrote, “Ya Gazzah! Our deep solidarity with your martyrdom and struggle. InshaAllah, we will soon take a direct part in your struggle.”
He called for the success of the ‘No Work, No School’ programme as a demonstration of unwavering support for Gaza.
The Revolutionary Students’ Council also called a nationwide student strike protesting against the genocide in Gaza.
Protests and rallies across Bangladesh
A solidarity and protest rally has been scheduled at the Raju Memorial Monument at Dhaka University at 4:00pm on Monday. Similar programmes are expected to be organised in educational institutions nationwide, as announced through a press release by the ‘March for Palestine’ movement.
Rezwan Ahmed Rifat, former coordinator of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, said, “Solidarity rallies will be held in every educational institution tomorrow, demanding an independent Palestinian state and protesting the genocide in Gaza. We must stand shoulder-to-shoulder with freedom-loving people worldwide.”
He also highlighted that the global strike on April 7 would include protests outside the UN headquarters in New York and in other major cities worldwide. “Our programme is rooted in the belief that not a single life should be lost due to negligence,” he added.
Voices of solidarity from universities
Students from various universities across Bangladesh have issued statements expressing their outrage and solidarity:
Dhaka University of Engineering and Technology (DUET): Students called on global leaders, including the UN and OIC, to take a firm stand against what they described as a barbaric massacre.
Rajshahi University of Engineering and Technology (RUET): In a statement, students condemned the ongoing genocide as a humanitarian crisis and a collective failure of conscience for humanity. “This genocide has unfolded before the eyes of the world for years. It is not merely a political issue; it is a grave humanitarian tragedy,” they said.
Islamic University: An urgent announcement declared, “We cannot and will not remain silent in the face of genocide.” Students pledged to suspend all educational and administrative activities on Monday, refusing to normalise the atrocities being committed in Gaza.
State University Law Students: Expressing solidarity with the innocent civilians of Gaza, they vowed to boycott classes, co-curricular activities, and office duties. “We refuse to remain silent as an entire population, including children and newborns, is bombed, starved, and killed in broad daylight by Israeli occupation forces and their allies,” they stated.
Statements from Dhaka University departments
Various departments of Dhaka University issued joint statements condemning the genocide perpetrated by Israeli occupation forces, supported by the United States and other global powers.
They criticised the silence of international organisations and Muslim-majority nations, saying, “What is shameful for humanity is the indifference of the so-called civilized world.”
They added, “We join the global strike—The World Stops for Gaza. We refuse to remain silent when an entire population is starving, bombed, and wiped out. As students, as people, and as part of the global community, we believe in standing up against oppression wherever it occurs.”
Health sector joins in protests
Even medical students have joined the protest. Dhaka Medical College announced a boycott of classes and exams on Monday, condemning Israel’s indiscriminate killing of civilians, including children, and the lack of access to medical care in Gaza.
“Israel’s vicious attack on Gaza, the killing of health workers, and the denial of medical aid are extreme examples of human rights violations,” they said, lamenting the silence of the Muslim world in the face of such atrocities.
Businesses also join
Monir Home Textile, a manufacturer of bedsheets, curtains, comforters, announced not to take any order on Monday in solidarity with the global call for ‘No Work, No School’ in support of Palestinians.
Global strike for Palestine
Monday’s strike in Bangladesh is part of a broader global movement demanding justice for Palestinians. Protesters worldwide are calling for an immediate end to the violence, accountability for war crimes, and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state.
As Bangladesh joins this global outcry, the message is clear: “Free, Free Palestine.” Through strikes, rallies, and acts of solidarity, students and citizens aim to amplify the voices of those suffering in Gaza and hold the international community accountable for its inaction.