Awami League leaders have raised alarms about rising Islamic fundamentalism in Bangladesh, attributing this to ISI influence. They describe a political environment where extremist groups threaten the nation’s secular roots. Incidents following August 5 have intensified these fears, leading Awami League leaders to express deep concern over the government’s ties with Pakistan.
The Awami League leaders have expressed serious concerns about the rising influence of Islamic fundamentalism in Bangladesh, attributing it to the backing of Pakistan’s intelligence agency, ISI. Senior Awami League leader AFM Bahauddin Nasim emphasized that radical extremist groups are undermining Bangladesh’s secular principles.
Nasim noted that violence and attacks have escalated since an incident on August 5, which he believes has facilitated the infiltration of jihadists into mainstream politics. He argued that ISI is actively seeking to transform Bangladesh into a bastion for Islamic radicalism, working through proxies like Jamaat-e-Islami.
The leaders criticized the interim government led by Prof Muhammad Yunus, alleging that many of his advisors have extremist affiliations. They accused groups such as Jamaat-e-Islami and Hizbut-Tahrir of rapidly radicalizing society, raising alarms about their connections with Pakistan.
Nasim expressed unease over recent engagements between Yunus and Pakistani officials, including Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. He cited the arrival of Pakistani goods in Bangladesh as a notable instance of rekindling relations, marking a concerning trend.
AWAMI League leader Mohammad A. Arafat echoed these sentiments, detailing attacks against their party’s members post-August 5. He claimed that these assaults are orchestrated by extremist factions, forcing many leaders into hiding.
Arafat also warned that Jamaat-e-Islami, directly associated with Pakistan’s past in the 1971 conflict, has resurfaced to create disorder in Bangladesh, promoting hostilities against India. Both leaders remain optimistic regarding the Awami League’s ability to combat these challenges, asserting the enduring leadership of Sheikh Hasina.
The current political climate in Bangladesh is marked by heightened tensions as Islamic fundamentalism resurfaces, exacerbated by perceived external influences, particularly from Pakistan. Awami League leaders are mobilizing against what they view as an attack on their nation’s secular foundations and democratic values. Following recent events, allegations of foreign interference have surfaced, prompting significant concern among ruling politicians about the integrity of their governmental structure and societal fabric.
In summary, Awami League leaders warn of a severe threat posed by Islamic fundamentalists allegedly supported by Pakistan’s ISI, which they claim is endangering Bangladesh’s secular and democratic ideals. Recent political developments have led to a resurgence of extremist violence, necessitating the party’s vigilance as they seek to reaffirm their leadership and combat radical influences within the country.
Original Source: sundayguardianlive.com
