Foreign missions, cross section condemn RU prof murder

Foreign missions in Dhaka and cross-section of people yesterday stoutly condemned the heinous murder of AFM Rezaul Karim Siddiquee, professor of English at Rajshahi University, who was found with his throat slit in Shalbagan area in Rajshahi city on Sunday.

They also called for quick probe and bringing the perpetrators to book.

US Ambassador to Bangladesh Marcia Stephens Bloom Bernicat said in a statement, "We urge the government of Bangladesh to condemn these murders and apprehend the perpetrators behind this and other attacks motivated by intolerance and hatred."

Mentioning that the initial findings indicate the murder was committed by fanatics, EU Ambassador Pierre Mayaudon said "Should it be confirmed, this would be yet another terror attack in Bangladesh in a short period of time."

"This murder is a direct attack on intelligence, culture and spirit of generosity, which were what Professor Karim was representing," said French Ambassador Sophie Aubert.

The foreign envoys conveyed their condolences to the bereaved family.

Educational institutions, teachers' organisations, students' bodies condemned the murder too.

Teachers' associations at Dhaka University issued a statement saying that the militant outfits were ruthlessly continuing their killing mission since similar murders in the past went unpunished while the teachers of Jagannath University held a human chain and a rally on the campus.

Teachers and students of Jatiya Kabi Kazi Nazrul Islam University, Shahjalal University of Science and Technology and Barisal University held human chains and rallies on their respective campuses, protesting the attack.

Those involved in such killings would continue their atrocities since the government in the past attempted to avoid its responsibilities…, claimed a statement of Ain o Salish Kendra.

Moreover, a joint statement signed by 22 eminent citizens called upon the people of the country to raise voice against murderers and their heinous activities.

BSS reports; Lambasting the murder, Bangladesh University Grants Commission Chairman Prof Abdul Mannan said, "Through the killing of Dr Siddiquee, it is evident that a group of people with strong political links has become desperate to damage the image of the country."

Meanwhile, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said, "The process to get justice has been eliminated. As a result, such incidents are increasing alarmingly."

Many organisations including Samprodayikota-Jongibad Birodhi Mancha issued separate statements condemning the recent murders including of Siddiquee.

They also criticise the prevailing culture of impunity in this regard.