The Face of Fascism

Opinion

In the land of mobs…
At Rajbari field in Gazipur, activists of the anti-discrimination student movement detained a person suspected to be “Jahangir’s man.” I captured footage of them taking him away. As I was about to leave, a group of activists approached me, questioning why I took photos and demanding that I delete them. A mob quickly formed, pressuring me to delete the footage immediately. I complied and deleted it in front of them. As I tried to leave, a few more individuals stepped forward, insisting I delete the footage from the trash as well. While I was deleting it, some began pushing me from behind, and a few even attempted to physically assault me repeatedly.

After deleting the footage, 2-3 college students escorted me out of the area and onto the road.

Throughout the entire incident, I had my office ID card around my neck and a boom mic in my hand. They accused Time TV of false reporting and claimed that television channels take money from Jahangir.

Once on the road, 2-3 young men approached me and expressed regret. They said they didn’t realize I was from ETV and that ETV supports their cause. Meanwhile, Hasnat Abdullah and Sarjis Alam, organizers of the anti-discrimination movement, arrived on the scene. A GMP commissioner was also present. I became occupied with my professional duties.

I do not seek any redress for this incident. My feelings were not hurt because this is the norm in such an environment. The reality is that anyone can be attacked or assaulted at any time. However, nature’s justice is severe. It leaves no debt unpaid and always returns what is due. I believe such justice will prevail. Just as the Awami League is facing the harsh judgment of nature.

This post remains as a memoir.

– Ariful Islam Sabir
8.2.25, Saturday
Dhaka-Chandra Highway, Gazipur.