NEW DELHI: India on Thursday condemned the vandalism of founding father of Bangladesh Sheikh Mujibur Rehman‘s residence in Dhaka and said that it is regrettable.
On Wednesday demonstrators gathered near Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s residence in Dhaka- now a memorial museum— responding to a social media call for a “Bulldozer Procession” coinciding with Hasina’s speech.
“It is regrettable that the historic residence of Sheikh Mujibur Rehman, a symbol of the heroic resistance of the people of Bangladesh against the forces of occupation and oppression, was destroyed on February 5, 2025. 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,” the ministry said in a statement.
“This act of vandalism should be strongly condemned,” it added.
The neighbouring structure, which served as offices for various Awami League organisations, was also destroyed. Protesters damaged murals featuring Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.
Demonstrators also set ablaze ‘Sudha Sadan’ on Road 5 in Dhanmondi, the residence of Hasina’s deceased husband Wajed Mian.
The homes of her cousins – Sheikh Helal Uddin and Sheikh Salauddin Jewel – in Khulna City were also destroyed by protesters.
Students removed Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s name from Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Hall of Dhaka University in protest.
After the vandalism, Bangladesh’s ousted and former prime minister Sheikh Hasina called for justice.
“They can demolish a building, but not the history… but they must also remember that the history takes its revenge,” she said in an emotional address.
“Today, this house is being demolished. What crime had it committed? Why were they so afraid of the house… I seek justice from the people of the country. Didn’t I do anything for you?” she added.
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