Two Shibir Leaders Publish Written Responses

The Islamic Chhatra Shibir (ICS) has recently released written responses from two of its branch leaders, following a wave of controversy surrounding their calls to shut down leading national newspapers, The Daily Star and Prothom Alo, and the demand to dismantle certain progressive organisations, including BAMS, Shahbagh, Chayanat, and Udichi. The statements clarify the leaders’ viewpoints and stress that any future negligence could trigger “the organisation’s highest disciplinary measures.”

According to ICS General Secretary Nurul Islam Saddam, Mostakur Rahman, Vice-President and Branch President of the Rajshahi University Central Students’ Union (RACSU), and Mostafizur Rahman, Secretary of the Jahangirnagar University branch, submitted detailed written explanations. In their responses, the leaders described the controversial remarks as the outcome of “misguided perceptions” rather than organisational directives. They emphasised that long-standing negative media coverage influenced their statements, but stressed that they “never condone violence or destruction of property.”

Saed Abdullah Mohammed Taher, Deputy Amir of Jamaat-e-Islami, categorically rejected the controversial claims, stating: “These do not reflect our views, and we do not support them in any form.”

ICS central President Zahidul Islam and General Secretary Nurul Islam Saddam jointly asserted that attempts to portray the organisation as endorsing violence were part of a “deliberate conspiracy.” They reinforced that ICS “does not support any violent activities and holds the principles of media freedom and freedom of expression in the highest regard.”

A summary of the branch leaders’ written statements is as follows:

The ICS joint statement further called for a neutral and credible investigation into the matter. It reaffirmed the organisation’s unwavering respect for the media and independent journalism, stating unequivocally that attacks on freedom of expression are entirely unacceptable. The leadership stressed their commitment to safeguarding dialogue and debate, emphasising that divergent opinions should be addressed through peaceful and lawful channels.

This clarification marks a decisive step by ICS to distance itself from misrepresented statements, reinforcing its stance as a student organisation that respects democratic principles and freedom of speech while maintaining organisational discipline.