Reaz Rahman on Shehabuddin book
Please refer to Syed Badrul Ahsan's review published in The Daily Star of 8 September 2007 of K.M. Shehabuddin's book “There and Back Again. A Diplomat's Tale”. It has only recently been brought to my notice and therefore, this rejoinder.
K.M. Shehabuddin is entitled to write fiction so long as he sticks to bolstering his own image and ego, on their merits, rather than at the expense of others.
The reference made to me as quoted in his book, is a case in point. It is false and maliciously so. He vilifies not only my father-in-law, who had no role whatsoever on my actions, but also my own ability to make independent decisions.
By the same yardstick, one can question the real compulsions that triggered Shehabuddin's own defection to India, especially his overwhelming anxiety over the compromising nature of his relationship with Indian authorities, media and intelligence.
The choice for me was clear. I trusted neither the Pakistanis nor the Indians, who had their own game to play, and rejected both. I returned to Karachi on the first flight after the total ban on communications was lifted (first week of October, 1971). I immediately exercised my option to join Bangladesh and sought leave to return home. When this was denied, I ultimately planned for and crossed the border to Afghanistan with my family. My loyalty to Bangladesh is not suspect and certainly not open to Shehabuddin's characteristic insinuations.
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel. 
Related News
NHRC response to The Daily Star editorial
25 April 2024, 05:00 AM
Letters to the Editor
Destruction of Hargazi Canal
24 April 2024, 08:18 AM
Letters to the Editor
Trapped in a never-ending scroll?
31 December 2023, 13:37 PM
Letters to the Editor
When will the government learn from past dengue outbreaks?
22 August 2023, 03:00 AM
Letters to the Editor
Install fire-escape facilities in every building
17 August 2023, 20:03 PM
Letters to the Editor
Comments