Groundlessly linking to ‘Islamist caliphate’ undermines countless Bangladeshis’ hard work: Govt slams Tulsi’s remarks

Bangladesh slammed remarks made by Tulsi Gabbard, director of US National Intelligence, in which she alleged "persecution and killing" of religious minorities in Bangladesh and that "the threat of Islamic terrorists" in the country is "rooted" in the "ideology and objective" to "rule and govern with an Islamist caliphate." 

Strongly condemning her remarks, a Facebook post by the government this evening (17 March) said, "This statement is both misleading and damaging to the image and reputation of Bangladesh, a nation whose traditional practice of Islam has been famously inclusive and peaceful and that has made remarkable strides in its fight against extremism and terrorism."

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The government's statement further said that groundlessly linking Bangladesh to the idea of an "Islamist caliphate" undermines the hard work of countless Bangladeshis and their friends and partners around the world who are committed to peace, stability, and progress. 

"Bangladesh strongly condemns any efforts to link the country to any form of 'Islamist caliphate'."

Earlier, US intelligence chief Tulsi Gabbard said persecution of religious minorities in Bangladesh has been a major area of concern for the United States.

In an interview with India's NDTV World, Gabbard, the director of US National Intelligence, said, "The long-time unfortunate persecution, killing, and abuse of religious minorities like Hindus, Buddhists, Christians, and others has been a major area of concern for the US government and President Donald Trump and his administration."

Gabbard, who arrived in New Delhi on Sunday on a three-day visit, spoke about the ideology of an "Islamic Caliphate" and how extremist elements and terror groups globally aim for such an outcome.

She said, "The threat of Islamist terrorists and the global effort of different terror groups are rooted in the same ideology and objective – which is to rule or govern with an Islamist Caliphate.

In response, the government said Gabbard's comments are not based on any evidence or specific allegations. "They paint an entire nation with a broad and unjustified brush."

"Bangladesh, like many countries around the world, has faced challenges of extremism, but it has continuously worked in partnership with the international community, including the US, to address these issues through law enforcement, social reforms, and other counterterrorism efforts."

The government further said, political leaders and public figures should base their statements, especially about the most sensitive issues, on actual knowledge and take care not to reinforce harmful stereotypes, to fan fears and potentially even stoke sectarian tensions.

"In support of our shared global efforts to combat extremism and terrorism, the Interim Government of Bangladesh remains committed to engaging in constructive dialogue based on facts and on respect for the sovereignty and security of all nations."