The Anti-Discrimination Student Movement has claimed that a certain group is deliberately trying to disrupt unity and peaceful coexistence by spreading religious provocation.
In a statement issued early Sunday (February 23), Rafiqul Islam, Secretary of the Community Affairs Cell of the movement, made this assertion.
Bangladesh’s Tradition of Communal Harmony Under Threat
The statement emphasized that Bangladesh has long been a shining example of communal harmony. The nation's culture, traditions, and values have been built on mutual respect and coexistence among people of all religions. This harmonious environment is an integral part of the country's heritage, serving as the foundation of national unity and peace.
However, recently, a certain group has been intentionally inciting religious provocations to undermine this unity and disrupt peaceful coexistence.
Condemnation of Offensive Remarks Against Islam
The statement particularly noted that offensive remarks and propaganda against Islam, Almighty Allah, and the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) are causing deep wounds in the fabric of social unity. Certain statements on social media and other platforms have been observed that hurt the sentiments of devout people and raise concerns about communal tensions.
It further stated that anyone in a responsible position making derogatory remarks about religion is acting in an unfortunate and condemnable manner. The government must take effective measures to prevent such hateful acts and ensure legal action to maintain communal harmony.
A Call for Unity and Responsible Freedom of Speech
The statement asserted that derogatory comments or hate speech against any religion not only hurt the sentiments of the faithful but also pose a serious threat to overall social peace and stability.
The movement called on students, intellectuals, religious leaders, and conscious citizens to resist divisive forces and actively work to uphold mutual respect and harmony.
It stressed that freedom of expression does not grant the right to insult religious beliefs. True free thought and democratic practice become meaningful only when they contribute to social peace and stability.
Preserving Religious Harmony in the Spirit of the 2024 Mass Uprising
The statement also reminded that people from all religious backgrounds sacrificed their lives in the 2024 mass uprising. Honoring their spirit of sacrifice, the new Bangladesh must ensure the continuation of religious harmony.
The Anti-Discrimination Student Movement expressed its hope that religious harmony in Bangladesh would remain intact, mutual respect would grow stronger, and all attempts to create division would fail.
The statement concluded with a unified call to build a peaceful, harmonious, and inclusive society, where all religions and beliefs are respected, and national unity is further strengthened.
