Jamaat-e-Islami Amir Dr Shafiqur Rahman called on the Hindu community to align with a political party that can ensure their security and dignity. "You will find it if you search with a little conscience," he remarked during his speech at the district Jamaat-e-Islami workers' conference held at Gore-e-Shaheed Maidan in Dinajpur on Saturday (January 25).Dr Shafiqur's statement followed testimonials from two Hindu attendees who expressed their aspirations for a Bangladesh free of fear and violence, especially during and after elections. "We, the followers of Sanatan Dharma, want to live in a country where there is no fear of attacks or harassment," one of them said.
Criticising ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina, the Jamaat chief referenced the arson attacks on Hindu homes in Pirganj, Rangpur. "Without any investigation, Sheikh Hasina blamed Jamaat for these incidents. But just two days later, the affected Hindus themselves said Jamaat was not involved," he said.
He addressed allegations against Jamaat regarding restrictions on women. "They laim that if Jamaat comes to power, women will be confined to their homes. But look around at this rally—there are thousands of women here, sitting freely. If we come to power, women will have two essential things: respect and security, which they currently lack under the Awami League government," he declared.
Shafiqur Rahman emphasised Jamaat's vision of establishing a humane Bangladesh. He remarked, "The ones who once told us to leave the country are now living abroad themselves. While the oppressors may have fled, oppression continues. Every act of murder, extortion, and corruption must be brought to justice to establish a fair society."
Calling for accountability, he criticized Sheikh Hasina's government, alleging that it acts as an agent of foreign powers. "They wanted to enslave Bangladesh, and Sheikh Hasina is complicit in that agenda," he alleged.
Dr Shafiqur also referenced the execution of 11 top Jamaat leaders and accused a Dinajpur judge of acting against his oath. "Such judges can face criminal charges for their actions," he added.
The Jamaat Amir also spoke about the 2013 Shapla Chattar incident, criticising the Sheikh Hasina for denying clerics were killed during the protests. "Did clerics throw paint there? How can a leader be so shameless as to lie about such an event?" he questioned. He further accused the government of preventing Jamaat from aiding flood-affected people while failing to provide support themselves.
The meeting, chaired by Jamaat-e-Islami Dinajpur District Amir Principal Anisur Rahman, was also addressed by Central Committee Assistant Secretary General Maulana Abdul Halim, Central Working Council Member Principal Maulana Momtaz Uddin, Professor Mahbubur Rahman Helal, and Central Majlish-e-Shura Member Md Delwar Hossain.