Religion is a personal choice: Jamaat Amir

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Amir Dr Shafiqur Rahman asserted that those who have been attacked by individuals of other religions should have the names of the perpetrators revealed. 

He emphasised the importance of clear and honest discourse, stating, “You should call white white and black black.”

Speaking at a views exchange organised by the Cultural Unity Front with poets, writers, and artists at Segun Bagicha in the capital on Saturday (August 31), Shafiqur stressed that dividing the nation on religious grounds is not the role of his party. 

“We are in close contact with people of all religions and aim to convey that religion is a personal choice,” he said.

Shafiqur highlighted that Bangladesh is home to diverse religious and ethnic communities, with 90 to 91 per cent of the population practicing Islam. 

He reaffirmed the party's respect for other religions, citing past instances where madrasa students protected temples, churches, and pagodas for the safety of minorities. 

“These actions demonstrate that while we respect others’ right to practice their religion, we also believe in the right way as dictated by Allah. However, no one has the authority to forcefully impose any religion,” he said.

He also addressed the issue of some individuals who create unrest to further their own agendas while blaming innocent people and remaining hidden. 

Shafiqur iterated the party’s commitment to maintaining close relationships with people of all faiths.

He emphasised that politicians are servants of the nation and cannot claim ownership of the country. “All citizens deserve their rights based on fairness, and no one has the authority to impose their religion on others,” he added.

Shafiqur said that in past years, the media was unable to operate independently. He encouraged journalists to act according to their conscience and prioritise truth, emphasising that there is no room for compromise in the pursuit of genuine reporting.