'Better not to raise such issues' today: How Shafiqur reacts to query about Jamaat's Shaheed Minar tribute stance
The visit drew significant attention due to Jamaat’s long-standing avoidance of placing flowers at monuments, a practice the party and its affiliates have traditionally viewed as religiously "impermissible" (najayez)
In a major departure from decades of political and ideological tradition, Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer and Leader of the Opposition Shafiqur Rahman paid floral tributes at the Central Shaheed Minar early today (21 February).
This marked the first time a top leader of the party personally placed a wreath at the national monument to honour the 1952 Language Movement martyrs.
On such a sacred day, it is better not to raise such issues. I have come here as part of my state protocol and official responsibility as leader of the opposition
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Accompanied by lawmakers from the Jamaat-led 11-party alliance, including Opposition Chief Whip and National Citizen Party (NCP) Convener Nahid Islam and NCP Member Secretary Akhter Hossen, Shafiqur placed the wreath at the altar at 12:22am, reports BSS.
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Following the tribute, the leaders stood in silence and offered special prayers for the departed souls.
The visit drew significant attention due to Jamaat's long-standing avoidance of placing flowers at monuments, a practice the party and its affiliates have traditionally viewed as religiously "impermissible" (najayez), according to media reports.
When a journalist asked a question implying whether Shafiqur's presence signifies an ideological shift or if the party still maintains its previous stance on the "permissibility" of such rituals, the Jamaat chief appeared displeased and avoided a direct answer.
"Why are you asking such a question on a day like this?" Shafiqur responded.
"On such a sacred day, it is better not to raise such issues. I have come here as part of my state protocol and official responsibility as leader of the opposition."
He clarified that his presence was a constitutional and ceremonial obligation, stating, "As leader of the opposition, it is my responsibility to be here with my people," reports BBC Bangla.
Shafiqur took the opportunity to honour martyrs across various historical struggles, including the 1947 movement, the 1952 Language Movement, the 1971 Liberation War, and the 1990 Mass Uprising.
He particularly emphasised the sacrifices of those killed during the July Uprising, who fought for national rights under the previous Awami League regime.
Following the ceremony at the Central Shaheed Minar, the Jamaat delegation proceeded to Azimpur Graveyard to visit the graves of the language martyrs and offer further prayers.
