How are known as “Razakaar” (Volunteer) in Bangladesh?

A single word from former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has ignited a storm of controversy and protest across Bangladesh. During a speech on July 14, Hasina referred to student protesters as “volunteers,” a term that in the context of Bangladesh’s history is synonymous with treason.

In Bangladesh, the word “Razakaar” (meaning volunteer) is infamously associated with those who collaborated with the Pakistan Army during the 1971 Liberation War. These individuals, known as Razakaars, are widely reviled for their role in committing atrocities and opposing the country’s fight for independence. The term has since been a derogatory label for traitors.

Hasina’s comment was seen as deeply insulting and sparked immediate outrage. The backlash was reminiscent of the actions of her father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, who faced criticism for establishing a one-party government fifty years ago. This single misstep by Hasina rekindled memories of a painful past, leading to her eventual dethronement.

The controversy unfolded against the backdrop of ongoing student protests, which began in July over the quota system in government jobs. Initially introduced in 1971 to recognize the sacrifices of Liberation War soldiers, the quota system has been modified over the years. Currently, it reserves 30 percent of civil service jobs for the children and grandchildren of these soldiers. An additional 26 percent is reserved for women, people from backward districts, indigenous communities, and persons with disabilities, leaving only 44 percent of jobs available on open merit.

With over 3 million Bangladeshi youth unemployed, discontent over the quota system has been growing. The students argued that the quota for the children of “freedom fighters” was unfair and politically manipulated, especially since this group constitutes less than one percent of the total population. Despite large-scale protests in 2013 and 2018, the government had promised to abolish the quotas but failed to implement this effectively.

On June 5, 2024, the High Court struck down the government’s order to abolish the quotas, declaring it illegal. This decision further fueled the students’ frustration and intensified the protests.

Sheikh Hasina’s use of the word “volunteer” in her speech added fuel to the fire, symbolizing a profound disconnect with the people’s sentiments and ultimately leading to her political downfall.