Jamaat-e-Islami Leader Calls for Strengthening India-Bangladesh Ties

Dr Shafiqur Rahman, leader of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, underscored the importance of bolstering relations between Bangladesh and India during a meeting with Indian media representatives. He highlighted the potential for improved ties, stressed non-criticism, and reiterated the party's commitment to peace, democracy, and equal rights for all citizens.

Dr Shafiqur Rahman, the Amir of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, emphasized the need to strengthen the relationship between Bangladesh and India. Speaking to representatives from the Indian Media Correspondents Association Bangladesh (IMCAB), Dr Rahman said, "We are mutual neighbours. Neighbours cannot be changed at will, and this is something that neither of us can deny." His comments were reported by Daily Manab Zamin, a prominent Bangladeshi tabloid.

Dr Rahman reflected on the historical ties between Jamaat and India, noting that while relations had cooled during Sheikh Hasina's 15 and a half-year tenure, there remains room for improvement. He expressed optimism about fostering a more positive relationship, stating, "It's not that the relationship was non-existent, but we hope for a more positive relationship moving forward. We are open-minded in this regard, and we hope India will be as well."

Addressing India's relations with Bangladesh, Dr Rahman said, "Cooperation should be the priority. That is our desire." He emphasized that Jamaat does not engage in intentional criticism of India or any other nation. During the discussion, he reiterated Jamaat-e-Islami's commitment to peace and democracy, asserting that the party has never been involved in destructive activities. "If it is proven that any of our members have engaged in terrorism, we will apologise to the nation and ensure they face the law," he affirmed.

During the meeting with journalists, Dr Rahman was accompanied by Assistant Secretary General and former MP AHM Hamidur Rahman Azad, and Central Executive Council Member and Central Publicity and Media Department Secretary Matiur Rahman Akanda. A media statement from Jamaat-e-Islami reiterated the party's commitment to protecting the homes, resources, and places of worship of all religious communities in Bangladesh. The statement also emphasized equal rights for all citizens, regardless of religion or majority status.

Dr Rahman voiced concerns about the current state of the judiciary, citing instances where judges have been forced into exile, and criticized the lack of a functional Election Commission in the country. He expressed disappointment with the police force, describing it as adversarial towards the people. Rahman called for the interim government to be given sufficient time to implement necessary reforms and highlighted Jamaat's focus on supporting victims and their families affected by recent student movements.

"We want to restore peace and order in the country as soon as possible," the statement continued. Rahman added, "The constitution, administration, judiciary, and political culture of the country need reform. No divisions should be made based on party or religion. We do not believe in revenge and respect everyone's rights."

Addressing recent floods in Bangladesh, Dr Rahman attributed the situation primarily to heavy rainfall but suggested that better communication between India and Bangladesh regarding water release from dams could have mitigated the impact. He called for improved communication and consultation between upstream and downstream countries to prevent such issues in the future. Addressing recent protests at the Indian visa center in Dhaka, Dr Rahman disapproved of the actions, urging respect for all involved. He reiterated Jamaat-e-Islami's commitment to maintaining strong ties with India, stating, "We view India as a close neighbor and believe in the importance of good relations with those who live near us."

(With inputs from agencies.)