The Chaotic Acts in the Name of the ‘Tawhidi Masses’ Must Stop
In the name of “Tawheedi Janata”, incidents of obstruction, attacks and vandalism at various cultural and social events have been reported in different parts of Bangladesh. Events such as Jatra, folk music programmes and Urus have faced disruptions. In Beanibazar of Sylhet, a voluntary boat-racing event was reportedly obstructed. In Kishoreganj, a concert was disrupted following objections from scholars and Ulamas. A cultural programme organised by the Brahmanbaria District Police was also disrupted after an attack involving madrasa students.
Bangladesh is home to people of different religions and communities, each with their own traditions, rituals and cultural practices. Jatra, songs, processions, sports and other traditional activities are part of the country’s cultural heritage. Such events have traditionally been accepted with tolerance and respect for differences. This raises an important question: who has given the so-called Tawheedi Janata the authority to obstruct traditional customs, cultural events and the practices of others?
The term “Tawheed” generally refers to the Islamic belief in the oneness of God. However, actions carried out in the name of Islam that are not approved by Islam can damage the image of the religion itself. Those who use the name of Islam to justify attacks, vandalism or mob action risk bringing disrepute to Islam. It would be unfair to assume that everyone involved in such activities fully understands their consequences. Some may participate in good faith. However, regardless of their intentions, those who obstruct the religious practices, traditions or cultural activities of others, engage in mob violence or take the law into their own hands have no such right.
If anyone has an objection to an event or activity, there are laws, courts and proper legal procedures to address it. No individual or group can take the law into its own hands. Such actions are crimes and must be dealt with accordingly. Mob violence can also be misused to settle personal disputes and cause harm to people and property. There is also a broader national concern. Bangladesh has faced repeated claims and allegations about militancy and extremism. India and some international actors have also raised concerns about extremism in the country. Against this backdrop, any rise in lawlessness carried out in the name of religion could damage Bangladesh’s image and create further opportunities for hostile propaganda.
Bangladesh must therefore remain cautious. The country should not allow itself to be portrayed as a militant or extremist state because of the actions of a few groups or individuals. Bangladesh has a long tradition of communal harmony. People of different religions have the right to practise their faith, traditions and culture peacefully. This harmony and mutual respect must be protected. Muslim scholars, ulamas, Pirs and religious leaders have a particularly important role to play. They should set an example by ensuring that no group can use the name of Islam to harm Islam, other communities or the country. The government also has a major responsibility.
Traditional culture and social harmony must be protected, while no one should be allowed to obstruct lawful events or take the law into their own hands. Police and local administrations must act responsibly and firmly when such incidents occur. At the same time, obscenity and vulgarity should not be promoted in the name of entertainment. Lawful and decent cultural activities should be encouraged. The goal should be to build a civilized, cultured, humane and peaceful Bangladesh where people can live with mutual respect and goodwill. Preventing violence and protecting communal harmony must remain a shared responsibility.
