Nahid Islam Says Bangladesh Will Accept Dominance from Neither India nor the United States

National Citizen Party (NCP) Convener and Opposition Chief Whip Nahid Islam has said Bangladesh will not accept the dominance of any foreign power, declaring that the country will pursue an independent foreign policy while safeguarding its sovereignty.

Speaking on Tuesday at a discussion marking the second anniversary of the July Uprising at Jagannath University, Nahid said the movement was rooted in demands for democracy, voting rights, border security, an independent foreign policy and Bangladesh's fair share of transboundary river waters.

"We will accept the dominance of neither India nor the United States," he said, adding that the uprising was aimed at protecting the country's sovereignty and strengthening its independent position in international affairs.


Reflecting on the political developments since the movement, Nahid said many of the aspirations that inspired the uprising have yet to be fully achieved. While acknowledging progress, he noted that public expectations have not been fully met and described the July Uprising as an ongoing movement whose objectives remain unfinished.

He also urged first-time voters to remain informed and exercise their voting rights responsibly, saying public participation would be essential in shaping the country's democratic future.

Highlighting Jagannath University's contribution to the movement, Nahid said the institution had played an important role during the uprising and deserved greater national recognition. He called on the government to give special attention to the university in future policy decisions.

Addressing students, he stressed that while infrastructure development is important, higher education should primarily focus on building values, integrity and responsible citizenship.

Nahid also called for comprehensive reforms in the country's higher education system, advocating transparent and merit-based appointments of vice-chancellors and university teachers in accordance with established regulations.

The event was also attended by NCP Political Council member and Member of Parliament Abdullah Al Amin, Jagannath University Treasurer Professor Dr Sabina Sharmin, Proctor Professor Md Nasir Uddin, Jatiya Chhatra Shakti President Zahid Ahsan, General Secretary Abu Bakar Majumdar, and Jaksu Vice President Riazul Islam, among others.