Bishwa Ijtema first phase on 8-10 Jan, 2nd phase 15-17 Jan

The Bishwa Ijtema will be held in two phases from 8-10 January and 15-17 January at the Tongi Ijtema ground, according to a home ministry press release issued today (3 September).

Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed announced the schedule following a meeting with representatives of the Saad faction of Tabligh Jamaat at the ministry today. The government had earlier held discussions with representatives of the Zubair faction, reads the release.

The Saad faction has sought permission to hold a separate, one-phase Ijtema at the Tongi ground after the two scheduled phases. It proposed holding the gathering either before Ramadan, with a reasonable gap after the scheduled phases, or towards the end of November.

Both factions have sought to use the Tongi ground, the release said.

It said an agreement reached between the two factions during the previous government stipulated that the Saad faction would not hold the Ijtema at the venue. The faction disputed the decision at today's meeting and renewed its demand to use the ground.

The government will take a final decision on the Saad faction's proposal after further discussions with both factions and consultations with law enforcement agencies, the home minister said.

He said public safety and the maintenance of law and order would be given priority in making the decision.

Salahuddin said the government was committed to holding the Bishwa Ijtema in a peaceful environment and urged both factions to reach an understanding and refrain from any form of disorder.

Regarding the possible arrival of Maulana Saad, the minister said the matter falls under visa policy and the jurisdiction of the Religious Affairs Ministry. A decision will be taken in accordance with the relevant policies, he said.