New Delhi: India has issued a strong condemnation of the vandalism of the historic Dhaka residence of Bangladesh’s founding father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, describing the act as “regrettable” and an attack on a symbol of the nation’s fight for independence.
The statement comes in response to the violent destruction of the residence on February 5th, 2025, by a mob of protestors.
Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasized the profound historical significance of the residence, stating that it represents the heroic struggle of the Bangladeshi people against oppression and occupation.
“It is regrettable that the historic residence of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, a symbol of the heroic resistance of the people of Bangladesh against the forces of occupation and oppression, was destroyed on February 5, 2025,” Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said.
“All those who value the freedom struggle that nurtured Bangla identity and pride are aware of the importance of this residence for the national consciousness of Bangladesh. This act of vandalism should be strongly condemned,” he added.
The attack, reported by Dhaka Tribune, involved a mob reportedly demanding a ban on the Awami League, storming the premises after breaching the main gate. Visuals circulating online depict the extent of the destruction, including flames on one of the floors of the building. The violence escalated significantly, with protestors using hammers, crowbars, and wooden planks to vandalise the property and destroy portraits of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.
Local media outlets have linked the attack to an online speech delivered by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Reports in Dhaka Tribune indicate that social media posts had called for a “Bulldozer Procession” targeting the Dhanmondi-32 residence if Sheikh Hasina gave a speech. The timing of the attack, coinciding with the calls for the “Bulldozer Procession,” further strengthens this connection.
