Paris, France; January 24, 2024: JusticeMakers Bangladesh in France (JMBF) vehemently condemns the recent actions and statements made by Mr. Asif Mahatab Utsho, a former teacher at BRAC University. The incident, which involves false propaganda against the positive portrayal of third gender issues and spreading misinformation about homosexuality in Bangladesh and Europe, along with the subsequent tearing up of Class Seven textbook pages, is highly concerning and goes against the principles of responsible academic discourse.
According to reports published in various newspapers and a viral video clip, JusticeMakers Bangladesh learned that on January 19, 2024, Mr. Ashif Mahatab attended a seminar on the new education curriculum organized by the National Teacher Forum, a pro-Islamic-minded teachers' forum in Bangladesh. The seminar, held at the Institute of Diploma Engineers in Dhaka’s Kakrail area, saw Mr. Utsho criticizing the incorporation of transgender issues in a Class VII textbook of the new curriculum.In the discussion, he advised people to buy the book at Tk 80, tear up the two pages, and then return it to the shop for reselling at half the price to "raise awareness." "This will be our protest – we'll buy the book and tear up the pages," he said.
Mr. Utsho's advocacy for tearing up pages of a textbook, encouraging others to do the same, and spreading false information not only demonstrates a lack of respect for educational resources but also contributes to the dissemination of misleading narratives within the community. Such actions undermine the values of education, inclusivity, and critical thinking that educational institutions strive to instill in their students.
He mentioned that people lose their jobs for speaking up, questioning the lack of support on many occasions. He asked if there would be protests if he loses his job, expressing concern about the impact on students' lives.
“The elite society had boyfriend-girlfriend relationships, and now your children have this kind of relationship. When the elite society changes, the rest changes automatically. If you can't stop this now, the future will be dark” he said.
“Laws will be passed in Bangladesh – the boys who identify as girls will get jobs, and those speaking against this will be fined and jailed for one year. This is the reality. If this law is passed, we are done for.”He also claimed that in European countries, universities force individuals to be gay, and if you don't comply, you are expelled from the university and cannot secure employment.
After his statement went viral on social media, BRAC University decided not to extend his contract, leading to demonstrations by some pro-Islamic-minded students advocating for the reinstatement of Mr. Asif and the ban of transgender students at BRAC University.
The inclusion of the lesson ‘the Story of Sharifa,’ in the chapter on similarities and differences between people in the history and social science book of the class stirred debate among parents after the distribution of the books earlier this year.
JusticeMakers Bangladesh in France (JMBF) believes that the inclusion of diverse perspectives, including the positive portrayal of third gender issues, in educational materials is an essential part of fostering understanding and tolerance among students. Mr. Utsho's attempt to derail this constructive approach by promoting destructive actions and false propaganda is not only detrimental to the educational environment but also goes against the principles of a tolerant and inclusive society.
Moreover, the false assertions regarding potential laws in Bangladesh and Europe related to homosexuality are baseless and contribute to the spread of misinformation. JMBF believes in promoting accurate information and engaging in constructive dialogue to address concerns rather than resorting to destructive actions and spreading unfounded claims.
JMBF appreciates BRAC University's prompt action in severing ties with Mr. Utsho, emphasizing their commitment to maintaining a safe environment for students and promoting inclusion and tolerance. As responsible members of the academic community, it is crucial to stand against actions that compromise the integrity of educational institutions and the values they uphold.
In conclusion, JMBF stands firmly against the destructive actions and false propaganda perpetrated by Mr. Asif Mahatab Utsho. JMBF calls for a commitment to fostering an environment of respect, understanding, and accurate information within our educational institutions.
Additionally, JusticeMakers Bangladesh in France (JMBF) calls on the government to enact laws for the protection of the rights of sexual minority people in Bangladesh after repealing Section 377 of the penal code as soon as possible.
With Best Regards
Advocate Shahanur Islam
Founder President
JusticeMakers Bangladesh in France (JMBF)
Email: saikotbihr@gmail.com
Cell/WhatsApp/Signal: +33 (0)7 83 95 23 15
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