Al Haqeeqa
Pic Courtesy: OneIndia.com
The prime victim or casualty of any form of large scale violence is always the demographic composition or the plural constituency. Bangladesh, being a multi-religious country with Hindus forming a significant minority, has been the focus of international media reporting. Certain sections argue that the protests were conducted in the name of Islam and that Islamists provoked violence against the Hindu minority. It was further reported that there were targeted episodes such as attacks on Hindu holy sites, Hindu houses, and physical aggression against Hindu women. Islam, being the majority religion, is argued to have been a driving force behind the current movement. However, it is imperative to analyse the conduct of the protestors vis-à-vis Islam and Hindu minority rights. It is also crucial to examine the teachings of Islam regarding the protection of minorities, protests, and conduct in the streets.
At the outset, Islamic teachings are in consonance with the principle of protecting the life and property of minorities, whether in times of war or peace. Amidst the violent protests, it is imperative for both the Government and protestors to adhere to just rules of engagement. It is also imperative for protest movements to maintain communal harmony; otherwise, they might be held responsible for inflicting violence on minorities. In Bangladesh, the protest movement achieved its objectives in a short period, and the threshold of violence against minorities largely remained confined. The media reported certain incidents of violence against the Hindu minority, but at the same time, there were initiatives to protect houses and mandirs by local Muslims, Ulema, madrassa students, and student activists. It was also reported that religious organizations instructed people to maintain communal harmony as the protest movement was against the corrupt political authorities rather than any particular community. Amidst the unrest and under constant watchful eyes of the world, it is the religious duty of Bangladeshi Muslims to come forward to protect the life and property of Hindus. The Government, authorities, and leaders of the protest movement are obliged to maintain harmony. Islam confers upon them the duty to protect minorities. This should be made a norm and a law. Religious leaders must take up the responsibility to announce from mosques that local initiatives should be undertaken to protect minorities.
The student-led protest movement in Bangladesh has underscored the deep-seated frustrations and demands for change within the country. While political mismanagement, corruption, and economic inefficiencies might have fuelled this unrest, in this global era, the movement also highlights the need for protecting minority rights and maintaining communal harmony in a multi-religious society. As the protests evolve, it is crucial for both the government and protestors to uphold principles of justice and non-violence, ensuring that the pursuit of political reform does not lead to further division or harm on communal lines. Islamic teachings and the moral responsibilities of all citizens should guide efforts to safeguard the rights of minorities, reinforcing that the movement’s true focus is on challenging systemic corruption and creating a more equitable society for all. The path forward requires a commitment to transparency, accountability, and mutual respect, ensuring that Bangladesh can move towards a future where all communities can thrive together.
-Altaf Mir,
PhD Scholar,
Jamia Millia Islamia
