"History will speak the truth regardless of whoever tries to distort it," Hasina said at a discussion as part of a month-long programme to mark the 30th death anniversary of her parents -- Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and Fazilatunnesa Mujib -- at the Institution of Engineers in the city.

She said the verdict also proved the killers of Bangabandhu and beneficiaries of the killing are trying to tarnish the image of the great leader and his party Awami League for the last 30 years.

Hasina, also president of the main opposition Awami League (AL), said the evil forces who killed Bangabandhu have distorted the country's history and built a 'house of cards' based on falsehood.

"The High Court verdict has destroyed their house of cards," she said at the discussion organised by the AL's student front Bangladesh Chhatra League (BCL).

She said the verdict has jolted the base of the ruling BNP as it came into being through an illegal process.

"It is a shame for Bangladesh and its people that our children are learning history distorted by successive illegal governments," she said referring to textbooks on the history of Liberation War that undermined the role of Bangabandhu.

The opposition leader urged all progressive forces to unite to dislodge the BNP-Jamaat-led ruling coalition. "We will have to oust this communal and terrorist government which has done nothing for people's welfare but created a panicky situation everywhere."

She said, "We have to pledge that we will move together to build a secular, progressive and prosperous Bangladesh."

Economist Abul Barakat said people are now living in utter miseries as prices of essentials are increasing since the present government took over. The price spiral could force the ruling alliance out of power if the opposition parties launch an effective movement on the issue, he added.

Litterateur Syed Shamsul Haque, Prof Hamida Banu and Dr Abul Kashem also took part in the discussion with BCL President Liakot Sikder in the chair.