Shafiqur Rahman, the leader of Bangladesh’s Jamaat-e-Islami, has emphasized the need for strengthened ties between Bangladesh and India. During a meeting with representatives of the Indian Media Correspondents Association Bangladesh (IMCAB), Rahman highlighted the shared history and geographic proximity of the two nations, stating, “We are mutual neighbours. Neighbours cannot be changed at will, and this is something that neither of us can deny.” While acknowledging the strained relationship during Sheikh Hasina’s tenure over the past 15 years, Rahman expressed hope for a more positive trajectory in the future, stressing the importance of cooperation. “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 added.
Responding to questions about India’s relations with Bangladesh, Rahman further emphasized, “Cooperation should be the priority. That is our desire.” He also clarified that Jamaat does not engage in intentional criticism of India or any other country.
During the meeting, Rahman reaffirmed Jamaat-e-Islami’s commitment to peace and democracy, asserting the party’s non-involvement 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 stated.
In a separate media statement, Jamaat-e-Islami reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the homes, resources, and places of worship of all religious communities in Bangladesh. The statement underscored the party’s belief in equal rights for all citizens, regardless of religion or majority status.
Addressing recent protests at the Indian visa centre in Dhaka, 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.”
Jamaat-e-Islami’s history is intertwined with the political landscape of Bangladesh and Pakistan. Founded in India in 1941 by Abul A’ala Maududi, the party opposed Bangladesh’s independence from Pakistan in 1971 and aligned with Pakistani forces during the Liberation War. Following the war, the party faced a ban, but later regained political influence during the tenure of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia. However, the Awami League, under Sheikh Hasina, cracked down on Jamaat leaders accused of collaborating with Pakistani forces, leading to imprisonment and death sentences for several members. In 2013, Jamaat-e-Islami was banned from participating in politics, a move met with public protests.
While the party’s history is marked by controversy, Rahman’s recent statements highlight a shift towards emphasizing peaceful coexistence and cooperation with India, particularly in the context of current political and social unrest in Bangladesh. It remains to be seen how this new stance will impact the future of Bangladesh-India relations and the political landscape in Bangladesh.
