Giving Hafizs a Book by a Gay Author Points to a Deep Conspiracy: Akida Khatme Nabuwwat

The International Akida Khatme Nabuwwat Bangladesh has strongly condemned and protested against the presentation of Yuval Noah Harari’s book Nexus as a gift from the Prime Minister’s Office to the world champion the hafizs who brought glory to Bangladesh at an international Holy Quran competition held in Saudi Arabia.

In a statement issued today, Saturday, its Amir and central leader of the Bangladesh Nezame Islam Party, Maulana Saiful Islam Faridi, said that holding a state reception for the hafizs who brought exceptional honour to Bangladesh at the international Quran competition is undoubtedly a commendable initiative. However, what books are presented to them is also an important matter. In particular, presenting a book at a ceremony honouring hafizs of the Quran is inappropriate if its author, who is gay, has been criticised for controversial views on religion, faith, the Creator and religious beliefs.

Maulana Saiful Islam Faridi said the world champion hafizs are bearers of the Quran. The gifts presented at their reception should be consistent with their religious identity, values and the teachings of the Quran and Sunnah. He said the relevant authorities should exercise greater caution and responsibility when selecting books for such events.

He further said the government should clarify whether the book in question was actually presented as a gift and, if so, how the decision to select and present it was made. He called for legal action against those involved.

Maulana Saiful Islam Faridi urged the government to give due importance in future to the religious sentiments of the country’s majority population, the values of the Quran and Sunnah, and the dignity of the event when selecting gifts for religious and Quran-based state functions. He said, “We welcome the initiative to honour the world champion hafizs, while also expecting due caution and accountability regarding what is placed in their hands.”