Jamaat-e-Islami Leader Advocates Strengthening India-Bangladesh Ties

Dr. Shafiqur Rahman, leader of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, stressed the need for improved relations between India and Bangladesh during a meeting with Indian media representatives. He emphasized the importance of cooperation, peace, and democratic principles, while expressing concerns about the judiciary and recent floods in Bangladesh.

Dr. Shafiqur Rahman, the Amir of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, has stressed the significance of strengthening ties with India. Addressing a gathering of Indian Media Correspondents Association Bangladesh (IMCAB), Rahman said, "We are mutual neighbours. Neighbours cannot be changed at will, and this is something that neither of us can deny."

Reflecting on Jamaat's historical relations with India, Rahman noted that ties had cooled during Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's 15 and a half-year tenure but emphasized the potential for improvement. "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," he stated.

Rahman called for cooperation as a priority in India-Bangladesh relations and highlighted Jamaat's commitment to peace and democracy, stating that the party disapproves of destructive activities. He reaffirmed Jamaat's dedication to protecting all religious communities in Bangladesh and emphasized equal rights for all citizens.

During the meeting, Rahman voiced concerns about the current state of the judiciary, instances of judges being forced into exile, the lack of a functional Election Commission, and described the police force as being adversarial towards the people. He called for adequate time for the interim government to implement necessary reforms and stressed Jamaat's support for the victims of recent student movements.

Addressing the recent floods caused by heavy rainfall, he highlighted the need for better communication between India and Bangladesh regarding water release from dams. He condemned protests at the Indian visa center in Dhaka and reiterated the importance of maintaining strong ties with India.

(With inputs from agencies.)