DHAKA: Leaders of some socio-professional organizations Sunday urged the government to establish democracy, non-communalism and political stability in the country by stemming the tide of religious extremism.

Platform against Communalism and Militancy, a new outfit of campaigners for a sound socio-political order, made the plea at a press conference held at the National Press Club with its convener Ajoy Ray in the chair.

To achieve the ends, the group demanded restoration of the constitution of 1972, ban on religion-based politics, confiscation of all income sources of militants, holding trial of war criminals and those committed crime against humanity during the Liberation War, completing the trial of the 21 August grenade attack case and eradication of militants, and Al Badrs, Razakars and their collaborators.

Tareq Ali, Vice-President of Sammilita Samajik Andolon, presented a written statement at the news conference.

Director of IDE Noman Ahmed Khan, Vice-President of National Workers Alliance Mohiuddin Ahmed, Mohila Samity member Rakhi Das and MA Anwar of Bangladesh Tarikat Federation were also present.

They placed a six-point demand with the government for implementation.

They also announced their plan to hold a national convention on May 28 at the Institution of Engineers, Bangladesh, to gear up their campaign.
 
Leaders of the organization told the press conference that they were creating public opinion about war criminals, crime against humanity and terrorism to establish democracy, which is the “main objective of the convention”.

BDST: 1340HRS, May 23, 2010
HJS/LY/MUA