On March 26, marking the 56th Independence Day and National Day of Bangladesh, a state-organized event in Tanore Upazila stirred controversy. Reports indicate that Professor Mujibur Rahman, a Member of Parliament representing Rajshahi-1 (Tanore-Godagari) and Nayeb-e-Ameer of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, issued an instruction prohibiting the recitation of the Shrimad Bhagavad Gita, a revered Hindu scripture. This has incited strong opposition from various quarters, most notably the Bangladesh National Hindu Grand Alliance (Central Executive Committee).

Reactions from Hindu Community Organizations

The Bangladesh National Hindu Grand Alliance, which advocates for the principles of the Great Liberation War, publicly denounced the directive, expressing profound anger and disappointment. Traditionally, state commemoration events in Bangladesh commence with readings from religious texts, including excerpts from the Holy Quran as well as the Shrimad Bhagavad Gita. The announcement by MP Rahman to exclude the latter has been met with substantial backlash.

Efforts to Preserve Cultural Traditions

In an official statement issued on Friday, the organization’s Secretary General, Dr. Mrityunjoy Kumar Roy, questioned the appropriateness of such a directive in a nationally significant event. They have sought clarification from state authorities regarding this matter. The directive was reportedly communicated to the Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) in Tanore. However, thanks to the intervention of UNO Naima Khan, the event proceeded as planned, with the Shrimad Bhagavad Gita being recited along with other traditional readings. The organization expressed its gratitude towards Naima Khan for her efforts in ensuring adherence to customs.

Call for Accountability and Action

Moreover, the alliance has urged relevant government bodies to address what they deem discriminatory behavior from an elected official. The statement emphasized the importance of adherence to state regulations and the necessity of holding accountable those who act contrary to the spirit of inclusivity and respect for religious pluralism. The organization has also called upon the central leadership of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami to take suitable measures against the directive issued by Professor Mujibur Rahman.

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