Our identity problem

That symbolises that life is cheap in the Third World; and the price of freedom is high, and it is not time-bound.

Now the shantrash bahini has taken over. How come? How's that? No appeals are allowed in political cricket, and one side wishes to bat non-stop. Fielding (as the opposition team) is rather demeaning, it appears. But one has to stoop to conquer, in every sphere of life, from planting to harvesting, and while picking up the goods, or the baby. We are still in the national dolna (cradle). The mothering effect is rather confusing!

Bangladesh cannot make it to the Western international media, as Dhaka cannot put up a united image of the nation. We use tools (like democracy and elections) to fool others. Some of our neighbours display unity in diversity, but look at the varieties offered at our campuses! We are impressed by the wrong type of versatility.

In this deltaic region, the breeding of new chars and islands is a natural phenomenon. In the classics we read that each man is an island. We are good in disintegrating, but not in synthesising. The reason is clear enough: we are ruled by heart, although we have a good head. The body (of politics) is confused.

We do not mentally accept the concept of a Central Control Room. The Muktibahini accepted it, and came out successful. The mass movement in 1990 (ousting of autocratic regime) succeeded in such a short periodit looked effortless!

That is the point: our politics is laborious, not effortless. The mind is willing, but the heart is not. Effortlessness comes from inner conviction, not outdoor physical mobilisation (hartal, for example). Reap as you sow is an old maxim. Ad hoc attractions take the leaders (and the processions) away from the national goals. Temptation is a hard mistress, creating distress even for those not playing the game.

"District-ism" plays a leading role in our lives, believe it or not. This basic issue needs more analysis, before a correct synthesis can be arrived at. It is a sensitive issue, but the discussion on it is rather taboo.

How to cultivate a cosmopolitan outlook? It should not be started at the grassroots level; as it is a top-down culture of imitation.

The superior minds have some cultural responsibilities. The term does not mean medical treatment abroad or settling abroad. There is no objection to freedom of movement, provided the national ID card is shown at the right moment.

In Dhaka, what has happened to the bond of human brotherhood? Every home is a castle, but defend against whom? Lawlessness prevails in a society when it is allowed to directly or indirectly.