Jamaat opposes dividing nation on religious grounds despite 90% Muslim majority: Shafiqur
He described Bangladesh as a unique example of communal harmony; however, he added that even after so many years of independence, a truly humane society has yet to be established.
Jamaat does not support dividing the nation based on religion, even after 90.8% of the population is Muslim, said the party's Ameer Shafiqur Rahman today (4 October).
"As a nation, we - Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, and Christians - have lived together for decades. Among the few countries known for communal harmony, Bangladesh holds a special place.
However, we are not in favour of dividing the nation based on religion," he said while addressing a conference organised by the party's central Ulama Committee at Al-Falah Auditorium in the capital's Moghbazar area.
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The Jamaat chief added, "We want to see a united nation."
He said that people will embrace religion based on their own conscience and understanding.
He described Bangladesh as a unique example of communal harmony; however, he added that even after so many years of independence, a truly humane society has yet to be established.
Shafiqur also highlighted that Bangladesh has yet to emerge as a humane and responsible society, which, he said, is why the nation remains in crisis.
Calling for moral integrity among Ulama (Islamic scholars), he said, "The nation needs Ulama with hearts as firm as steel. They must listen to differing opinions without engaging in disputes.
Only then can they guide the nation along the right path." Urging them to play a greater role in nation-building, he said, "The harm that can be caused by a single stroke of the pen cannot be matched by the efforts of many. Therefore, ulama can play a major role in nation-building."
