THE eruption of violence in Munshiganj that left one police officer dead and scores injured is saddening. We condemn this wanton violence. We condole the death of the police officer who was on duty and express our sympathy to the bereaved family and those who received injuries. We also commend the police who showed impressive restraint even when one of their officers was killed.

Why this uproar and reaction of the people of Arial Beel? It is a move to voice a grievance over the airport project by people who felt wronged. We are not aware of any feasibility study carried out on the surroundings of the site or the site itself. Studies on seasonal water catchment and flows, impact on fishing, the forest land, the cultivable lands and uppermost the effects on livelihood should precede any action on the ground. It is a mega project set to run for a long time. Therefore, the stakes are very high for the people, let alone the government.

We appeal to the government to take the people in confidence and dialogue with them about the reasons for selection of such a site. It is imprudent to expect cooperation of people who believe that they are being robbed of their hearths and homes and means of livelihood. Application of force is not the way.

The government should not put any label on the issue to politicize it. It should not tag any political party to the violence. This will cloud its vision and blur its understanding of where it hurts the people.

Reportedly, the PM will decide on the matter shortly. We urge her to take all factors into account — technical, financial, environmental and especially those that affect the livelihoods of people who currently occupy the area before making up her mind. In making her decision public opinion must figure high. She must not also allow either pride or party interest to cloud her judgment.