Jinnah Included, Mujibur Rahman Excluded at Dhaka University Museum; Portrait of Pakistans Founder Damaged

Controversy Erupts at Dhaka University Over Portraits of Historical Figures

Dhaka University is experiencing significant controversy following the decision to display the portrait of Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the founder of Pakistan, at its museum. The move prompted backlash from various university stakeholders, leading to the removal of Jinnah’s portrait.

The incident occurred during an exhibition related to the student union, Ducsu, which also included the portrait of Abdul Jabbar, a former chief of the Jamaat-e-Islami party. University faculty members, including those from the University Teachers Network, have expressed that displaying Jinnahs portrait is a “grave insult to the Bengali nation,” reflecting deep-seated historical grievances particularly surrounding the events leading up to Bangladeshs independence in 1971.

Following widespread condemnation, the university initiated an internal investigation into the circumstances surrounding Jinnahs display. This scrutiny comes in light of broader conversations around historical narratives and national identity, particularly regarding figures viewed unfavorably in Bangladeshs historical context.

Moreover, the university administration has warned that action will be taken against members of Ducsu for regulatory violations related to the exhibition, emphasizing the importance of appropriate conduct in such sensitive matters.

These developments highlight the ongoing tensions in Bangladesh regarding historical interpretations and the legacy of key political figures in the region’s tumultuous past.