ঢাকা ২৮ মে ২০২৬
ঢাকা ২৮ মে ২০২৬
Barrister Shahedul Azam, Organizing Secretary of the Nationalist Democratic Movement (NDM), recently emphasized the party's dedication to religious harmony in Bangladesh, echoing the belief of NDM Chairman Bobby Hajjaj. He highlighted that Bangladesh is a place where people of all faiths coexist peacefully, stressing the importance of mutual respect among its citizens. Azam encouraged identifying primarily as Bangladeshis, fostering national unity over religious distinctions, and noted that the country's diverse religious communities enjoy complete freedom of worship, without the majority religion imposing dominance on others.
In response to recent acts of intolerance, Azam firmly condemned actions like the vandalism of temples or shrines and any attempts to injure religious sentiments, declaring these as unacceptable. Such incidents should remind everyone to safeguard the rights and sentiments of all communities. Drawing from Islamic teachings, Azam highlighted that Islam explicitly rejects discrimination and persecution, instead promoting justice, tolerance, and courtesy. He cited a significant hadith of the Holy Prophet ﷺ: “Beware! Whoever commits cruelty against a non-Muslim citizen, deprives them of their rights, burdens them beyond their capacity, or seizes anything from them against their will — I shall myself stand against him before Almighty Allah on the Day of Judgement.” (Sunan Abu Dawood, Hadith: 3052).
Azam criticized the use of religion for political gain as sheer hypocrisy, expressing profound mistrust toward those who exploit faith. He quoted, “I dread none more than the one who assumes the guise of a religious scholar yet employs religion for worldly gain.” (Musnad Ahmad). Religion, he argued, should be above politics and not dishonored, suggesting that supporting the peaceful celebration of festivals by Hindu brethren is an opportunity for unity and shared brotherhood.
He called on the public to stand united, transcending barriers of religion or caste, and adhere to true religious values to establish peace and harmony in society. Practical steps include promoting unity through community activities, educating others on tolerance, and actively condemning acts of intolerance.
While the NDM focuses on religious harmony, some critics argue that addressing underlying issues like economic disparities and political manipulation is also crucial for true unity. Others believe that grassroots movements play a vital role in fostering community bonds.
Alamin Mir Repotar
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