Bangladesh’s political landscape has been turned upside down in a dramatic twist of events. Following days of violent protests and civil unrest, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned on Monday and fled to India.
General Waker-uz-Zaman, the army chief amid this turmoil revealed that an interim government will be formed to help guide the country through these troubled times. He also informed that military will interfere in order to restore law and order.
Jamaat-e-Islami
Established in 1975, Jamaat-e-Islami is one of Bangladesh’s biggest Islamist parties. It was historically aligned with the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), but was barred from contesting national elections in 2013. The government of Bangladesh has since recognized Jamaat-e-Islami as well as its student affiliate Chhatra Shibir as terrorist organizations.
According to Associated Press, the Jamaat-e-Ismali’s constitution defied secularism which was enshrined in the national constitution. Among other things, it was further accused by the government for inciting violent protests which caused deaths of over 300 people and injuries to thousands more. These protests erupted when a controversial quota system for jobs in public sector was introduced.
History and ideology
Jamaat-e-Islami – Founded by Sayyid Abul A’la Maududi, who had links with Muslim Brotherhood, with a vision of creating an Islamic state. The name means Congregation of Islam while its student wing Chhatra Shibir means Student Camp. The organization derives its ideology from Islamic conquests and aims at making all countries muslim ruled states.
Controversial actions by Jamaat-e-Islami
Controversial acts perpetrated by Jamaat-e-Islami Since Bangladeshi independence the activities of thisisalmic group have been questioned. The group was banned by Sheikh Mujibur Rahman after he gained power due to their involvement in raising auxiliary forces like Razakars Al-Badr Al-Shams and Peace Committee among others. These groups are said to have committed atrocities on Bengali freedom fighters especially targeting hindus.
Widespread presence globally
Jamaat-e-Islami is a widely spread organization beyond Bangladesh. In Pakistan, it remains a major political force despite its engagement in militant activities through its student wing Islami Jamiat-e-Talaba. The group has ties with various extremist entities such as the Hamas in Gaza, Palestinian Islamic Jihad and Muslim brotherhood.
Current situation & gov’t crackdown
Bangladesh’s law enforcement agencies have moved to crack down on Jamaat-e-Islami and its branches since the ban was imposed.
In an attempt to dismantle Jamaat operations within Bangladesh authorities are focusing on offices and publication houses associated with the group. However, reports suggest that activists of Jamaat are trying to mobilize and stage demonstrations in different areas.
The government of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina is making decisive moves aimed at curbing Jamaat’s violent and extreme tendencies.
