Students for Sovereignty, a student-led nationalist organization at Dhaka University, issued a strong warning on November 23 regarding the interim government’s move to transfer parts of the Chittagong Port-including Laldia Char and the New Mooring Container Terminal (NCT)-to foreign operators under concession or lease agreements. The group held an emergency press conference at the iconic Madhur Canteen at 3 p.m., condemning what it described as a “suicidal decision” that could endanger Bangladesh’s economy, national sovereignty, and future geopolitical position.

During the press conference, the organization outlined seven major concerns, arguing that the proposed deals with DP World and APM Terminals-companies they claim operate in alignment with the strategic interests of foreign countries and the United States-pose long-term risks for Bangladesh. They stressed that such decisions must not be made without transparency, parliamentary oversight, and broad national consensus.

Muhammad Jingaul Haque, the group’s convener, delivered the main address, accompanied by joint convener Muhiuddin Rahat and several other student activists. The speakers characterized Chittagong Port as “the economic and security heartbeat of Bangladesh,” warning that foreign control over such a critical facility would create vulnerabilities far greater than any perceived economic gains.

The first point presented by the group focused on national security concerns. According to Students for Sovereignty, allowing foreign companies to operate the port could give outside powers leverage over Bangladesh’s domestic and foreign policies. They argued that in critical moments-such as periods of political instability or external pressure-these operators could become “obstacles” to sovereign decision-making.

They warned that ports operated by foreign entities might be used for strategic or military purposes without Bangladesh’s ability to intervene effectively. Citing international examples, the speakers alleged that private global port operators have........

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