Khushi Kabir, coordinator of the “Nijera Kori” initiative, called for an end to commercial shrimp farming and the protection of agriculture.
“We will stand against exploitation and raise our voice in protect,” she said while speaking as the chief guest at a discussion on Friday marking the 35th Martyrdom Anniversary of Karunamoyee Sardar, held at Harinkhola in Polder 22, Deluti, Paikgachha, Khulna.
Khusi Kabir stated that just as they cannot betray the freedom fighters and martyrs of 1971, they will not betray the martyrs and injured of the anti-saltwater shrimp cultivation movement in the southern region in the 1990s.
She added, “Times change, eras change, and so do the methods of exploitation. Now, the forms of oppression may be different, but we will stand against exploitation, resist it, and continue to protest and struggle. One day, we will win victory—for our children, the next generation, the land, and the people of our country.”
The event featured a special address by Sultana Kamal, former adviser to the Caretaker Government and human rights activist. The discussion was chaired by Urmila Sardar and organized by the Landless Workers’ Association, with speeches from Shahidul Islam, Abu Said, Gazi, Itika Mondal, Diti Bairagi, Lata Mondal, Rahela, and Sheikh Kabir Hossain. Also in attendance were members of the central team of Nijera Kori, including Rezanur Rahman, Khulna divisional coordinator Pabitra Chandra Sarkar, acting headteacher Sukriti Mohan, UP member Palash Kanti Roy, Badiar Rahman, and people from various professions. The discussion was followed by an engaging cultural programme, including drama performances.
It is worth noting that during the anti-saltwater shrimp farming movement in Khulna, on 7 November 1990, Karunamoyee Sardar was killed on the spot by gunmen hired by influential gher owner Wazed Ali Biswas at Harinkhola, Polder 22, Deluti, and many others were injured. Since then, Nijera Kori and the Landless Workers’ Association have commemorated this day annually.
