“Amar Desh” Editor Compared to ‘White Dog’: Mohiuddin Responds

Prominent writer and political analyst Mohiuddin Muhammad has issued a sharp response to comments made by Mahmudur Rahman, editor of the daily Amar Desh. In his critique, Mohiuddin compared Rahman to the proverbial “white dog” of rural folklore — a dog that bites the hand that feeds it after eating. He emphasised that it is the responsibility of citizens and commentators to protect the nation from such “bites.”

Mohiuddin also provided detailed insights into the July–August 2024 political unrest, highlighting how BNP chairman Tarique Rahman coordinated party activities and student mobilisation during the upheaval. Drawing on personal and non-political sources close to the BNP leadership, Mohiuddin stressed that his revelations aim to inform the public with factual details rather than pursue partisan objectives.

In a detailed Facebook post, Mohiuddin described the organisation of the BNP student and youth wings during the period. The capital, Dhaka, was divided into ten zones, each under the supervision of a coordinator and assigned teams of students and youth workers. Their primary responsibilities included transporting students and party members from surrounding districts, ensuring food and water supplies, and maintaining on-ground coordination. Notably, Mirza Abbas oversaw the distribution of eight truckloads of water and two truckloads of food, which was later scaled up as the movement intensified.

Mohiuddin further explained that law enforcement at the district and thana levels largely refrained from firing on students. In Habiganj’s Baniachang, a contingent of police attempted to open fire, but local superintendents and coordinating officers restrained the action, preventing casualties. Additionally, Mohiuddin personally communicated with foreign officials to ensure student safety during the unrest.

Medical assistance, food distribution, and logistical arrangements were also coordinated through various private universities, colleges, and healthcare providers. Accommodation and sustenance for thousands of students and party activists across Dhaka were meticulously organised by local leaders.

The table below summarises the key organisational and operational aspects of BNP’s coordination during the 2024 unrest:

Through this detailed account, Mohiuddin Muhammad underlined the strategic coordination and protective measures implemented for students, emphasising the importance of documenting and conveying factual events. He reiterated his commitment to continuing this practice in the future, prioritising the nation’s and the people’s interests over political considerations.