President’s Controversial Remarks Hurt Muslim Ummah: Ahmad Abdul Qayyum

Maulana Ahmad Abdul Qayyum, Assistant Secretary-General of Islami Andolan Bangladesh, has said that the President’s remarks, “When injustice descended not only on Bangladesh but on the whole world, Goddess Durga appeared,” have hurt and distressed the Muslim Ummah.

He said such remarks were unacceptable and strongly condemned and protested against them. He demanded that the President immediately withdraw the statement and provide a clear explanation to the country’s Muslim population. Otherwise, protests would begin across the country.

In a statement sent to the media on Monday (October 19), Ahmad Abdul Qayyum said the President had directly struck at Islamic Shariah while showing excessive devotion to the Hindu community. He said such remarks by the President of a Muslim-majority country like Bangladesh had deeply hurt the religious sentiments of devout Muslims.

He also referred to a recent statement by a senior leader of the ruling party at a Hindu religious event, who reportedly said that Tarique Rahman had become Prime Minister through the votes of Sanatanis, not Muslims. According to Qayyum, that remark had also shown extreme disrespect towards the Muslim Ummah.

Mr. Qayyum said that, according to the fundamental beliefs of Islam, Almighty Allah (SWT)  is the Creator, Sustainer and Protector of all creation. Muslims seek help from Allah alone for relief from injustice and for the welfare of humanity. Presenting any deity as the saviour or protector of the entire world is entirely contrary to the Islamic belief in Tawhid, or the oneness of Allah (SWT).

He said people of different religions in Bangladesh had the right to observe their religious festivals according to their beliefs. Islam also teaches respect for the religious freedom and security of people of other faiths. However, he stressed that respecting other religions was not the same as endorsing statements that conflicted with one’s own beliefs.

He added that a person holding the country’s highest constitutional office must exercise greater responsibility and caution when making such remarks. Mr. Qayyum said the President represents neither an individual nor a political party but holds the country’s highest constitutional position.

His statements should reflect due respect for the religious beliefs and sentiments of the Muslim majority, he said. He expressed hope that the President would provide an appropriate explanation, adding that the remarks had hurt religious sentiments and triggered unnecessary controversy at the national level.