Dhaka, July 30 — Prime Minister and Awami League President Sheikh Hasina has criticized ultra-leftist groups for allegedly aligning with the Islamist group Jamaat-Shibir. During a meeting with women leaders of the Chhatra League at Ganabhaban on Monday, she expressed concern over the unexpected alliances formed during recent anti-discrimination protests.

Sheikh Hasina remarked, "It is peculiar that our ultra-leftists are now associating with Shibir and Jamaat. It's strange; I don't understand their ideals or principles." She suggested that the alignment of these disparate groups has resulted in a peculiar coalition, questioning the motivations and funding behind the movement.

The Prime Minister accused Jamaat-Shibir of manipulating the anti-discrimination movement, allowing BNP-Jamaat extremists to infiltrate and exploit the situation. She questioned the financial backing for the movement, asking, "Where do they get so much money from? Who funded their movement on the third day?"

Sheikh Hasina expressed deep disappointment, stating that the actions of the anti-discrimination student activists had tarnished the country's reputation. She lamented, "I worked day and night to bring Bangladesh to a place of honor; this has damaged it. It's the saddest thing."

She accused the activists of not considering the international repercussions of their actions and how they undermined her efforts to uplift the nation. The Prime Minister emphasized that the protests harmed the country's image globally and disrupted the government's efforts to improve the people's quality of life.

In addressing the attacks on government facilities, she criticized the destruction of public property and essential services. "They destroyed the works that were meant for the people. My question is, who are they doing this for?" she asked, repeatedly questioning the intentions behind such actions.

Highlighting the government's achievements, Sheikh Hasina underscored the importance of maintaining national dignity and improving living standards for the people. She concluded by saying, "As a nation that won the liberation war, we should be able to stand tall internationally and walk with honor. I have brought that honor to Bangladesh. No one can deny that. Wherever Bangladesh goes today, it is seen with respect and dignity."