ছবি: Dr. Shafiqur Rahman, Ameer of Jamaat-e-Islami, file photo
Dr. Shafiqur Rahman, Jamaat-e-Islami's Chief, refutes claims of anti-India sentiments
In a recent interview with Anandabazar, Jamaat-e-Islami chief Dr. Shafiqur Rahman categorically denied allegations of his party harboring anti-India sentiments. "These are baseless and politically motivated narratives aimed at misrepresenting Jamaat's ideology," he stated. He emphasized maintaining harmonious relations with neighboring nations, including India, on the principles of equality and respect.
When asked about the party's characterization as an extremist organization akin to the global Islamic Brotherhood, Dr. Rahman dismissed the notion. "Jamaat is a modern, liberal, and democratic political organization founded on Islamic principles," he clarified, adding that the party operates independently and holds no affiliation with international groups.
On reports of discomfort within BNP over Jamaat's alleged hardline stance, Dr. Rahman reiterated that the party adopts pragmatic and moderate policies. He described Jamaat as a long-time ally of BNP, which, he claimed, is well aware of Jamaat's contemporary outlook.
Addressing concerns about violence against minority Hindus, Dr. Rahman asserted that Jamaat believes in equal rights for all citizens, irrespective of religion. "Jamaat does not subscribe to majority-minority divisions and has a history of maintaining dialogue with Hindu leaders," he said.
When asked about India-Bangladesh relations under a potential Jamaat-led government, Dr. Rahman expressed a desire for stronger bilateral ties based on mutual respect and equality. He criticized the previous regime's approach as overly transactional and vowed to prioritize practical and cooperative relations.
Rejecting claims that Jamaat seeks to oust both Awami League and BNP to pave the way for new political forces, Dr. Rahman attributed the public's discontent with Awami League to corruption and authoritarianism. He reiterated, "We have no intention to eliminate any political party; the people’s wisdom should guide the nation's course."
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