Sarjis Alam, General Secretary of the July Shahid Memorial Foundation and Central Organizer of the National Citizens’ Committee, has claimed a conspiracy behind the Secretariat fire, questioning how a dog entered the premises. Speaking at the Thakurgaon Rising event, he noted the fire broke out in the rooms of two key leaders of the mass movement, Asif Mahmud and Nahid Islam, who now represent the government. He described the incident as deliberate, pointing to the presence of bureaucrats loyal to the previous regime, whom he accused of undermining security and advancing partisan agendas.
Sarjis highlighted that the fire occurred in two rooms 100 meters apart in Building 7, suggesting coordination. He called for a thorough investigation, insisting such incidents jeopardize the safety of reforms and fair governance. Referring to reports of a dog found in one of the burned rooms, he raised further suspicions of foul play.
Addressing the broader implications, he emphasized that the sacrifices of those injured and killed during the movement demand accountability and proper reforms to pave the way for fair elections. He warned that delaying reforms or elections could allow destabilizing forces to exploit the situation and harm national stability.
Sarjis also criticized the misuse of the mass uprising, accusing some of filing false cases, extorting money, and targeting businesses. He condemned these practices, stating they betray the movement’s ideals and sacrifices.
Speaking about the National Citizens’ Committee, he clarified that it is not a political party but a force for change, aiming to develop skilled and ethical leadership to guide Bangladesh toward a better future.
