Hefazat-e-Islam Bangladesh has announced a three-month-long series of divisional conferences and a nationwide protest march on May 23, demanding the establishment of women’s rightful entitlements.
The announcement was made by the organization's Secretary General, Sajidur Rahman, at a grand rally held on Saturday (May 3) at Dhaka’s Suhrawardy Udyan.
The rally, which began at 9:00 am, was presided over by Hefazat's Amir, Allama Shah Muhibullah Babunagari. It was conducted by Azizul Haque Islamabadi and Mufti Kefayet Ullah Azhari. The event concluded at 1:11 pm with a prayer led by the Amir.
In his speech, the Secretary General stated, "To establish women’s rights, divisional conferences will be held within the next three months. In addition, protest marches will be held across the country after Jumu'ah prayers on May 23, based on four key demands."
Joint Secretary General Azizul Haque Islamabadi read a written statement on behalf of the Amir. He said, “After Sheikh Hasina fled from power on August 5 last year, we had a glimpse of freedom. But the conspiracies haven’t stopped. Therefore, we must build even stronger unity in the coming movements.”
Issuing a warning, he said, “If the interim government, influenced by NGOs, takes any anti-Islamic decisions, Hefazat will not accept them. The recommendations to repeal the Women’s Reform Commission and the Blasphemy Law must be withdrawn. Instead, the harshest punishment must be ensured for those who disrespect religion.”
The declaration was read by Hefazat’s Nayeb-e-Amir and Secretary General of Befaqul Madarisil Arabia, Maulana Mahfuzul Haque. He said, “The Women’s Reform Commission and anti-Quranic reports must be scrapped, and a new commission must be formed with scholars. Trust in Allah must be reinstated in the Constitution, and the term ‘pluralism’ should be removed.”
He added, “The blood of those martyred at Shapla Chattar and during the July movement will not go in vain. Justice must be served for that massacre.” Labeling the Awami League as a “murderous party,” he said all its activities should be banned until they are brought to justice.
Hefazat leaders also called for media reform, demanding strict action against news and broadcasts that hurt religious sentiments.
